The Return of Stormont: A Revitalised Government
Mar 07, 2024
In the recent resurgence of power-sharing at Stormont, a much-anticipated development unfolded as the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP) ceased its protest against Parliament, grounded in concerns over the Northern Ireland protocol post-Brexit. As parliamentary activities resume, there are various questions to consider. How did we arrive here? What does it mean? And what is to come?

The chambers of the Northern Ireland Assembly in the Stormont region of East Belfast fell silent in May 2022, marking almost two years of legislative hiatus due to the rejection of the Northern Ireland protocol. The lack of action is undeniably disconcerting, but it is not the first time nor the longest period over which it has occurred, previous suspensions elapsed from 2017-2020 as well as 2002-2007, making a simple 21 month break somewhat of a relief.

On January 30th, DUP leader Jeffrey Donaldson made a pivotal announcement – the restoration of an executive government led by Michelle O’Neill and Emma Little-Pengelly. The catalyst for this breakthrough was the unveiling of the command paper titled "Safeguarding the Union". This comprehensive document aims to streamline domestic imports and foster trade between Great Britain and Northern Ireland, effectively maximising flexibility under the EU/UK deal. A notable outcome of this initiative is the assurance that no routine checks on goods moving between GB and NI will be imposed.

For the first time since Stormont’s founding, Sinn Fein will make up the majority of the assembly. While the first and deputy first ministers share equal power, the historic appointment of Michelle O’Neill as the first republican leader of Northern Ireland carries profound symbolic weight. Mary Lou McDonald, the party leader, claimed last week that Irish unity is within touching distance. While cautioning against undue optimism, the palpable move is noteworthy, particularly given Sinn Féin's popularity in the Republic of Ireland, where an election is anticipated within the next year.

Unsurprisingly, there is a long list of things to do after nearly two years of political paralysis.The UK has offered a £3.3 billion package to stabilise Northern Ireland’s finances which should kickstart some progress. Civil servants, who admirably held the fort during the political impasse, now await the return of elected legislators to fully address the backlog of issues. Resolving public sector pay, exacerbated by a mid-January walkout of 100,000 workers, emerges as an urgent priority. The healthcare sector, mirroring England's struggles, grapples with 79% of patients on waiting lists, significantly surpassing the average in England of 43%. This starkly underscores the detrimental impact of a non-functional legislative body on essential public services.

From the vantage point of the Good Friday Agreement, there emerges significant room for optimism. The agreement, firmly anchored in the principles of power-sharing between unionist and nationalist communities, finds renewed expression in the reunion of an executive government comprising such parties. This, coupled with the restoration of a more stable political environment, propels Northern Ireland toward a governance structure
reflective of the values envisioned by the agreement. As Stormont reengages in political discourse and decision-making, the potential for constructive dialogue, collaborative governance, and positive change beckons on the horizon.

Paddy Furey – the Mount Plunkett man who sailed the seven seas only to come to grief in his childhood home

16 May, 2024
While his mastery of wood, wind and wave made him perhaps the finest Irish boatbuilder of his generation, Jimmy Furey always generously acknowledged his elder brother Paddy was the superior craftsman. Paddy’s resourcefulness and skill is still evident all over the Furey family home in Mount Plunkett. Sixty-odd years after my toddler’s thoughtless fingers slammed it open and shut numerous times daily, the intricately hinged front door he crafted for the cottage remains considerably more robust than its young tormentor. With the scars of the recent Civil War still smarting and the riches of the Celtic Tiger Years half-a-century and more away, the Ireland of the 1930s and 1940s remained an unimaginably poor country. Struggling to support two adults and five children, the Furey smallholding held out zero hope of any kind of meaningful future once those kids began raising families themselves.

Exploring the Global Impact of St. Patrick's Day: From Montserrat to Melbourne and Beyond

16 May, 2024
St. Patrick's Day, observed annually on March 17th, is not just a date on the calendar; it's a global phenomenon that unites people in celebration of Irish heritage and culture. As I reflect on the festivities that unfolded this year, I'm struck by the profound impact of this beloved holiday, which transcends borders and brings together communities from all corners of the globe. From the bustling streets of Dublin to the vibrant cities of Buenos Aires, Tokyo, and beyond, St. Patrick's Day is a testament to the enduring legacy of Ireland's patron saint. What began as a religious feast day in Ireland has evolved into a worldwide celebration, thanks in part to the millions of Irish immigrants who carried their traditions with them to distant shores. One such place is Montserrat, a tiny Caribbean Island with a rich history intertwined with Irish influence. Settled by English and Irish immigrants in the 17th century, it earned the nickname "Emerald Isle of the Caribbean." However, its past also includes slavery and rebellion, notably the St. Patrick's Day Rebellion in 1768 led by a slave named Cudjoe. Despite suppression, it symbolises resistance. Over time, Montserrat's culture evolved, blending Irish, African, and Caribbean traditions. Today, St. Patrick's Day is celebrated vibrantly, honouring the island's heritage and spirit of independence. Here, St. Patrick's Day holds profound significance, not only as a day of celebration but also as a commemoration of a historic slave revolt. The spirited week-long festival honours the island's complex heritage, with colourful masquerades and lively festivities that echo the resilience of its people. Traveling across continents, I find myself in Buenos Aires, Argentina, where the streets come alive with music and dance on St. Patrick's Day. Despite being dubbed "The Paris of South America," the Argentine capital takes on a distinctly Irish flair as it hosts South America's largest celebration of the holiday. It's a testament to the global reach of Irish culture and the power of community to unite across borders. In Tokyo, Japan, a fascinating fusion of Japanese tradition and Irish customs defines the annual St. Patrick's Day parade. Against the backdrop of bustling city streets, participants don traditional costumes and showcase their Irish spirit, demonstrating the universal appeal of this beloved holiday. Closer to home, cities across the UK, including Birmingham and London, embrace St. Patrick's Day with gusto. From lively parades to spirited performances, the streets resonate with the sounds of Irish music and laughter. It's a reminder of the enduring connection between Ireland and its diaspora, spanning generations and continents. In recent decades, Australia has witnessed a significant influx of Irish migrants seeking new opportunities and experiences in the land Down Under. This wave of migration has brought a fresh infusion of Irish culture and traditions to cities like Sydney and Melbourne. In Sydney, more than 80,000 people flock to the streets for the St. Patrick’s Day Parade and Family Day, making it the largest event of its kind in the southern hemisphere. The festivities reverberate with the vibrant colours of Irish flags, lively music, and the unmistakable rhythm of traditional Irish dancing. Meanwhile, in Melbourne, the Irish community comes together to mark the occasion with a variety of events, from pub gatherings featuring live Irish music to cultural festivals showcasing the rich heritage of the Emerald Isle. Yet, amidst the global celebrations, one destination stands out in my mind: Chicago. As the Chicago River turns a brilliant shade of green and the city streets transform into a sea of emerald, there's an undeniable magic in the air. For me, experiencing St. Patrick's Day in Chicago holds a firm place on the bucket list. An idea long batted about between me and my dad, I hope before long we will make the journey over to the American Mid-West. As we reflect on the recent St. Patrick's Day celebrations that unfolded across the UK and beyond, it's evident that this day holds a special place in the hearts of many. From the lively streets of Birmingham and London to the spirited gatherings in Manchester and Liverpool, the essence of Irish culture was embraced with enthusiasm. These festivities, which took place just recently, serve as a reminder of the enduring connections between Ireland and its global diaspora. As we look back on this year's global celebration, there's a collective anticipation for the opportunity to partake in the joyous camaraderie once again, wherever the journey may lead. Article by Kate O'Mahony

Opening up closed adoption in Ireland

23 Apr, 2024
Most people don’t hesitate when they’re asked where they come from or who they got their eye colour from. They know the answers. They’re part of their DNA – literally – and their identity. But people who’ve experienced a closed adoption can’t answer those seemingly straightforward questions, and they can feel awkward, sad, or even ashamed when they’re asked. When I began my doctorate in psychotherapy research, I didn’t know what to study. Something relevant to my clients? DiJerent ideas came and went, but none stuck around. Although adoption was a subject that was personal to me and relevant to therapy clients, I initially dismissed the idea, because it had been researched to death – hadn’t it? All those children and adults over the decades throughout the world. There must be tons of studies on how they’ve fared, what they think and feel and how adoption has aJected them. Well, no. Most of the research that has been done is of the medical kind. I found plenty of studies looking at whether we do better or worse in terms of mental health and ‘adjustment’ than non-adoptees. It was all about looking for diJerences, as part of an attempt to settle a debate about nature and nurture. Much of the research was from the USA and UK, both of which have had open adoption for several decades. What was really missing from those decades of research was the voices of those most aJected: adoptees, first parents (there’s still almost no research on first fathers) and adoptive parents and siblings. Where they were asked, it was often about specific things like searching for first families. Rarely had adoptees been asked to tell their whole story. In the Irish context, first mothers were only interviewed in depth for the first time three years ago, by researchers from UCG. But anecdotally, there seems to have been a lot of silence, stigma, and shame for everyone touched by closed adoption. Although there’s been a lot of political and legal change recently in Ireland, such as the Redress Scheme and the Birth and Information Tracing Act, these have come about without full consultation or adequate understanding. An example is the requirement to have spent at least 180 days in a mother and baby home, to be eligible for redress. That might be financially prudent for the government, but it shows a complete lack of understanding of people’s experiences, and risks adding insult to injury. Trauma doesn’t begin on day 181! So I decided to research the experience of Irish people who have had closed adoptions, giving them a chance to share their stories in full. I’ll be interviewing a small number of people in depth to hear about how their adoption has aJected them, their loved ones, and their lives. I hope the study will raise awareness of adoptees’ experiences, so that fellow adoptees don’t feel so isolated – when we’re seen for who we are, we feel more at home in ourselves. I also hope that I will help to change the conversation in Ireland, so that the shame and stigma are no longer borne by adoptees and their loved ones, but by the institutions of church and state who failed us in the past and continue to do so. I’ve recruited several participants already, and am looking for two or three more whose experience matches the flyer. If that’s you, I’d love you to get in touch. Everyone who takes part will receive a copy of the findings, and anyone can contact me to stay informed about the study and receive a copy too. Are you open to discussing your experience and the significance of it for you and your loved ones? • Share your story in a confidentinal online interview, for an in-depth research study. • Participants will receive a copy of the key insights and findings from the study. • Email Bernadette Covo, researcher, at 06208@metanoia.ac.uk, to find out more.
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