Part 1 - General Information

Information from the CIA yearbook (abridged) Republic of Ireland ONLY

Area:
 total area: 70,280 km2
 land area: 68,890 km2
Climate:
 temperate maritime; modified by North Atlantic Current; mild winters, cool summers; consistently humid; overcast about half the time
Terrain:
 mostly level to rolling interior plain surrounded by rugged hills and low mountains; sea cliffs on west coast
Natural resources:
 zinc, lead, natural gas, petroleum, barite, copper, gypsum, limestone, dolomite, peat, silver
Population:
 3,529,566 (July 1993 est.)
Nationality:
 noun: Irishman(men), Irishwoman(men), Irish (collective plural)
 adjective: Irish
Ethnic divisions:
 Celtic, English
Religions:
 Roman Catholic 93%, Anglican 3%, none 1%, unknown 2%, other 1% (1981)
Languages:
 Irish (Gaelic), spoken mainly in areas located along the western seaboard, English is the language generally used. There is also a lot of Irish speakers in the large cities (particularly Dublin), but they are less concentrated in the cities than in the Gaeltachts.
Labour force:
 1.37 million
 by occupation:
 services 57.0%, manufacturing and construction 28%, agriculture, forestry, and fishing 13.5%, energy and mining 1.5% (1992)
Capital:
 Dublin
Administrative divisions:
 26 counties; Carlow, Cavan, Clare, Cork, Donegal, Dublin, Galway, Kerry, Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Leitrim, Limerick, Longford, Louth, Mayo, Meath, Monaghan, Offaly, Roscommon, Sligo, Tipperary, Waterford, Westmeath, Wexford, Wicklow
Independence:
 6 December 1921 (from UK)
Constitution:
 29 December 1937; adopted 1937
Legal system:
 based on English common law, substantially modified by indigenous concepts; judicial review of legislative acts in Supreme Court; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
National holiday:
 Saint Patrick's Day, 17 March
Political parties and leaders:
 Democratic Left, Proinsias DE ROSSA; Fianna Fa/il, Albert REYNOLDS; Labour Party, Richard SPRING; Fine Gael, John BRUTON; Communist Party of Ireland, Michael O'RIORDAN; Sinn Fe/in, Gerry ADAMS; Progressive Democrats, Mary HARNEY
 note:
 Prime Minister REYNOLDS heads a coalition consisting of the Fianna Fa/il and the Labour Party
Suffrage:
 18 years of age; universal
Elections:
 President:
  last held 9 November 1990 (next to be held November 1997); results - Mary Bourke ROBINSON 52.8%, Brian LENIHAN 47.2%
 Senate:
  last held on NA February 1992 (next to be held February 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (60 total, 49 elected) Fianna Fa/il 26, Fine Gael 16, Labour 9, Progressive Democrats 2, Democratic Left 1, independents 6
 House of Representatives:
  last held on 25 November 1992 (next to be held by June 1995); results - Fianna Fa/il 39.1%, Fine Gael 24.5%, Labour Party 19.3%,Progressive Democrats 4.7%, Democratic Left 2.8%, Sinn Fe/in 1.6%, Workers' Party 0.7%, independents 5.9%; seats - (166 total) Fianna Fa/il 68, Fine Gael 45, Labour Party 33, Progressive Democrats 10, Democratic Left 4, Greens 1, independents 5
Executive branch:
 president, prime minister, deputy prime minister, Cabinet
Legislative branch:
 bicameral Parliament (Oireachtas) consists of an upper house or Senate (Seanad Eireann) and a lower house or House of Representatives (Dail Eireann)
Leaders:
 Chief of State:
  President Mary Bourke ROBINSON (since 9 November 1990)
 Head of Government:
  Prime Minister Albert REYNOLDS (since 11 February 1992)
Diplomatic representation in US:
 chief of mission:
  Ambassador Dermot A. GALLAGHER chancery:
  2234 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington DC 20008
  telephone:
   (202) 462-3939
 consulates general:
  Boston, Chicago, New York, and San Francisco
Flag:
 three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), white, and orange; similar to the flag of the Cote d'Ivoire, which is shorter and has the colors reversed - orange (hoist side), white, and green; also similar to the flag of Italy, which is shorter and has colors of green (hoist side), white, and red
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
 3.5% (1992)
Unemployment rate:
 22.7% (1992)
Industries:
 food products, brewing, textiles, clothing, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, machinery, transportation equipment, glass and crystal
Currency:
 1 Irish pound (#Ir) = 100 pence
Ports:
 Cork, Dublin, Waterford
Telecommunications:
 modern system using cable and digital microwave circuits; 900,000 telephones; broadcast stations - 9 AM, 45 FM, 86 TV; 2 coaxial submarine cables; 1 Atlantic Ocean INTELSAT earth station

What to call the Republic and the North

Regularly posters get flamed for calling the Republic of Ireland, Eire or Southern Ireland. This is seen by some as pandering to the British as the British Media insist on using the terms Eire or Southern Ireland, as a way of differentiating between the North (the part inside the UK) and the Republic. If you don't wish to offend use the term Republic of Ireland when refering to the 26 counties. In a similar vein use Northern Ireland when refering to the part inside the UK as Ulster consists of nine counties, three of which are in the Republic.

The Constitution of Ireland (Bunreacht na hEireann) states in Article 4.
`The name of the State is Eire, or in the English language, Ireland'

The total island of Ireland has 32 counties, 26 are in the Republic of Ireland and the remaining 6 are in the North of Ireland. The island is historically divided into the four provinces of Leinster, Munster, Connacht and Ulster. The province of Ulster has 9 counties, of which 6 are in Northern Ireland. Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdom, and the remaining 26 counties make up the Republic of Ireland.

This is further confused by the fact that articles 2 & 3 in the constitution claim the North as part of Ireland.

Article 2:
`The national territory consists of the whole of the island of Ireland, its islands and the territorial seas.'

Article 3:
`Pending the re-integration of the national territory, and without prejudice to the right of Parliament and Government established by the Constitution to exercise jurisdiction over the whole of that territory, the laws enacted by that Parliament shall have the like area and extent of Saorstat Eireann and the like extra-territorial effect.'

More information can be found from various ftp and www sites given in Part 10.

Part 2. - Music & Art

Translation of Clannad/Enya/etc. lyrics

Translations of Enya-lyrics can be found at:
ftp.uwp.edu:/pub/music/artists/e/enya/lyrics/translate.txt
http://astrowww.astro.indiana.edu/personnel/link/enyaidx.html for WWW-users.

Discography can be found at:
ftp.uwp.edu:/pub/music/artists/e/enya/discog2
http://www.bath.ac.uk/~ccsdra/enya/dicography.html for WWW-users.

Enya faq can be found at:
rtfm.mit.edu:/pub/usenet/news.answers/music/enya-faq
http://www.bath.ac.uk/~ccsdra/enya/faq.html for World Wide Web users.
this FAQ is updated monthly and very well kept by Dave Allum at Bath Univ.
[unlike this one :-)]

List of sessions

Seisiu/n list

IRELAND:

  1. Dublin:
    • The Ferryman - Sir John, Rogersons Quay; I was there on two consecutive nights with different musicians..
    • An Beal Bocht - On the banks of the Grand Canal, Merrion Road near St. Stephen's Green; I think on Wednsedays.. Every night, 1st and if necessary 2nd floors
    • Slattery's - Capel Street off of the quay, west of o'Connell street, Don't stray northward!; Different nights depending on schedule
  2. Galway:
    • Flanagan's
    • Monroe's Tavern - Domenick Street area; Probably every night...
    • Taylor's Bar
    • Waterfront
    • The Quay - Quay Street area; Probably every night...
    • Naughton's
    • Also the Crane Bar and Club Ora na Galway which is hard to find.
  3. Mayo:
    • Westport: Matt Molloy's .. probably every night I would guess.
  4. Killarney:
  5. Kerry: Buckley's .. every night I'd say .. friendly place

NORTHERN IRELAND:

  1. BELFAST:
    • Maddens - off Castle Lane, near Castlecourt Shopping Centre main car park, Belfast City Centre; sessions on friday and sat nights sometimes other nights. Popular with locals and German, Spanish, and American backpackers Good Guinness.

USA:

ILLINOIS:

  1. Chicago:
    • Chicago, IL: The (Irish) Abbey Pub, 3420 W. Grace, has sessiuns every Sunday night from 8pm on. Some of the best musicians in Chicago play here regularly (Liz Carroll, Marty Fahy, Martin Hayes--before he moved to Seattle). The noise is a little more than desirable, though.
    • Brookfield: (western suburb of Chicago): Irish Times, 8869 Burlington, has open sessions every Wednesday night. The attitude here is a little less formal than at the Abbey. Last I was there, there was one other fiddle player, a bodhran/harmonica player, a guitarist, and a whistle player who considered themselves regulars. The drummer and guitarist also play in the local band "Donnybrook".
    • Evanston: Tommy Nevin's Pub has sessiuns every Sunday afternoon at around 2pm.. 1450 Sherman Ave. (708)-869-0450

MASSACHUSETTS:

  1. Boston:
    • The Green Dragon - Saturdays 4pm - 9pm+, Downtown
    • The Green Briar - Mondays 9pm on.., Brighton
    • Mr. Dooley's - Wednesdays 9pm on.. Sundays 7pm on.., Downtown
      From: Seamus Keleher

WISCONSIN

  1. Madison:
    • Mickey's Tavern, 1524 Williamson St., (608)251-9964 Wednesdays, 9:30-close. Small, redneck-looking bar, cheap (in both senses) beer. Two extremes of setting: standing-only crowded, smoky, very noisy / quiet, empty, laid-back. Musicians: several regulars of commendable repertoire, plus 3-10 irregulars of various backgrounds. Very friendly, low-pressure, but 95% Irish, 100% traditional. Fiddle-heavy, wind-light, one banjo and one uillean piper always there.
      From: Alan Ng
      Ha ha Ha Ha Ha! This is a VERY funny description. I used to play there as well. I can update for you- 9 fiddlers of various skill levels, and maximum volumes is what I have heard lately from my friend Eric. Don't forget the free beer!!
      From: Edward A Beimborn

PENNSYLVANIA

  1. Pittsburgh
    • Murphy's Pour House, 215 East Main, Carnegie. 279-0770. Every Thursday from 9 PM - midnight. About 5 - 10 players (mostly guitarists and fiddle players and occasionally a dancer). Open to who wants to participate. Friendly place with good atmosphere.
    • Mullaney's Harp and Fiddle, 2329 Penn Ave, Strip District. 642-6622. The first and third Sundays of every month. [Every Teusday there is Ce/ili/ dancing with instruction for beginners and more advanced classes for those able to do them.] Very friendly place.

CANADA:

  1. Vancouver, BC
    last Friday of the month at the CB Vets Legion at Broadway and Cambie, contact Kevin Dooley.
    From: David Dalton
    Sunday jams 5--9 p.m. at the W.I.S.E. pub, 254-5858, usually mix of celtic music, acoustic blues and folk, varies.
    From: David Dalton
    Might be worth popping into the Scottish Cultural Centre (address in the phone book) to see if there's any events listed there.
  2. St. John's, Newfoundland
    Wed. nights at Bridgett's Pub. St. John's Folk Arts Council.
    From: David Dalton

Part 3. - Tourism

Contact numbers

If you require a list of Hotel or Bed and Breakfast accommodation then contact Bord Failte.
Bord Failte
The Irish Tourist Board
Head Office
Baggot Street Bridge
Dublin 2
Ireland
Tel +353 1 676 5871
Tel +353 1 661 6500
Tel in US 1-800-223-6470

also

+1-212-418 0800 +1-416-929 2777 +612-299 6177 +43-1 941351
+32-2 673 9940 +45 33 15 80 45 +358-0 646 006 +33 1 47 42 33 15
+49 69 23 33 41 +39 2 869 0543 +31 20 622 3101 +47 22 92 00 80
+351-1 386 2041 +34-1 577 5458 +46 8 662 8510 +411 401 5260
+44 71 493 3201

IRISH YOUTH HOSTEL ASSOCIATION
Membership required.
43 Hostels in Republic.
Write to:
An Oige
Head Office
61 Mountjoy Street
Dublin 7
Ireland
Tel +353 1 830 4555
Fax +353 1 830 5808
Telex 32988 IYHA EI

YOUTH HOSTEL ASSOCIATION OF NORTHERN IRELAND
Membership required.
6 hostels in Northern Ireland
Write to:
YHIANI
56 Bradbury Place
Belfast BT7 1RU
Northern Ireland
Tel +44 232 324 733
Fax +44 232 439 699

IRISH BUDGET HOSTELS LTD.
No membership required.
26 hostels in Republic
Write to:
Irish Budget Hostels Ltd.
Kinlay House
2-12 Lord Edward
Street Dublin 2
Ireland
Tel +353 1 269 7696
Fax +353 1 269 7704

INDEPENDENT HOSTEL ORGANISATION
No membership required.
97 hostels in the Republic and 3 in NI.
Write to:
Independent Hostel Organisation
Information Office
Dooey Hostel
Glencolmcille
Co Donegal
Ireland
Tel +353 73 30130

Also in Dublin Independent Hostel Organisation
Information Office
Avalon House
55 Aungier Street
Dublin 2
Ireland
Tel +353 1 475 0001
Fax +353 1 475 0303

Gulliver is a reservations database for Ireland run by the Tourist Board. It covers hotels, guest houses, car hire etc. All Bord Failte international offices are connected to Gulliver. Call toll free in Ireland on 1-800-600-800, or +353 1 284 1765 outside Ireland to make a reservation using a credit card number to guarantee arrival. Gulliver is also accessible via the major airline computer reservation systems (CRS).

[Thanks to Richard Barry for this information and Bord Failte numbers]

Festivals

Belfast Festival. Similar in format and style to the renowned Edinburgh Festival, and second in size only to Edinburgh. It takes place in November each year, mostly around the University area of Belfast, although some large events are held in the city's main concert halls.

It hosts events of all types, Music, Theatre, Comedy, from all over the world. The Royal Shakespeare Company have been regular visitors, and Orchestras and Dance troupes from Eastern Europe have met with a great acclaim.

Around the main festival, in smaller venues, halls, bars, is a lively fringe festival offering folk music, poetry etc.

Part 4. - Gaeilge na hE/ireann (Irish Gaelic) Language

Common greetings/sayings in Irish Gaelic

There are many greetings and responses in Irish. These vary even among the dialects. I will provide a few here as an example.

Dia duit                        (Lit. God to you)
Dia is Muire duit               (Lit. God and Mary to you)

Go mbeannai/ Dia duit           May God bless you
Go mbeannai/ Dia is Muire duit  May God and Mary bless you
 
Bail o/ Dhia ort                The blessing of God on you
Bail o/ Dhia is Muire duit      The blessing of God and Mary on you

Go raibh maith agat             Thanks (Lit. May there be good at you) 
Go dtaga do ri/ocht             May thy kingdom come
Na/r laga Dia do la/mh          May God not weaken your hand
Gura sla/n an sce/alai/         May the bearer of the news be safe
Gurab amhlaidh duit             The same to you
Ta/ fa/ilte romhat              You are welcome

Cad e/ (Goide/) mar ta/ tu/?    How are you? (Ti/r Chonaill)
Ce/n chaoi 'bhfuil tu/?         How are you (Connacht)
Conas ata/ tu?                  How are you? (Mumhan)

Ta/ me/ go maith                I'm doing well

An bhfuil aon rud u/r ag dul?   What's new?
Aon sce/al 'ad?                 What's new? (Connacht)

Sla/n leat                      Good Bye (said to one going)
Sla/n agat                      Good Bye (said to one remaining)

Sla/inte chugat                 Good health to you
Gabhaim pardu/n agat            I beg your pardon
Gabh mo leithsce/al             Pardon me (Lit. Accept my excuse)
Ma/s e/ do thoil e/             If you please 
Le do thoil                     Please
Saol fada chugat                Long life to you
For the following greetings Gurab amhlaidh duit is a common answer:
Oi/che mhaith duit              Good night 
Codladh sa/mh duit              A pleasant sleep
Nollaig shona duit              Happy Christmas
Nollaig faoi she/an is faoi     A prosperous and pleasant
 mhaise duit                     Christmas
Athbhliain faoi mhaise duit     A prosperous New Year
Terms of Endearment
a ghra/      
a ru/n
a sto/r
a thaisce 
a chroi/
a chuisle

 my dear darling/love/treasure

muirni/n     
leanna/n
ce/adsearc
 sweetheart

a ghra/ mo chroi/ 
 love of my heart!
Curses
Imeacht gan teacht ort   
 May you leave without returning 
Titim gan e/iri/ ort    
 May you fall without rising 
Fa/n fada ort       
 Long travels to you 
Go n-ithe an cat thu/ is go n-ithe an diabhal an cat
 May the cat eat you, and may the cat be eaten by the devil 

Irish Gaelic courses in Ireland and elsewhere

Introductory Courses to the Irish language

NOTE: Additional information is available in the file RPAYNE1 TYIG via the LISTSERV@IRLEARN.UCD.IE with command GET RPAYNE1 TYIG

U/dar: Mi/chea/l O/ Siadhail
Teideal: LEARNING IRISH
Foilsitheoir: Yale University Press -New Haven and London
ISBN: 0-300-04224-8

For the tape set (four cassettes);
U/dar: Mi/chea/l O/ Siadhail
Teideal: LEARNING IRISH CASSETTES
Foilsitheoir: Yale University Press -New Haven and London
ISBN: 0-300-04340-6

NOTE: Irish lessons to be used with above texts are available in the file IGSTENS1 TYIG via the LISTSERV@IRLEARN.UCD.IE with the command GET IGSTENS1 TYIG

As a learner, you might consider a set of cassettes and booklet titled BUNTU/S CAINTE. They come in three levels. This is convenient as you don't have to purchase all three at once. It is recommended that you use BUNTU/S CAINTE for pronunciation in combination with PROGRESS IN IRISH.

U/dar: T. O/ Domhnallain
Teideal: BUNTU/S CAINTE Vol.(1, 2, or 3) Book and Cassettes
ISBN: X50153, X50154, X50155

U/dar: Ma/ire/ad Ni/ Ghra/da
Teideal: PROGRESS IN IRISH
ISBN: X71212

Conradh na Gaelige (The Gaelic League) welcomes all who are interested in learning/preserving Irish.
12 Sillogue Rd.
Dublin 11
+353-1-842-9372

6 Sra/id Fhearchair
Dublin 2
+353-1-475-7401
[bookshop +353-1-478-3814]

Gaelic League, Pittsburgh Branch
P. O. Box 97742
Pittsburgh, PA 15227-0142

Contact:
Jim Dilmore
(412) 361-1757

Email: dilmore@bns.pitt.edu

Audio Tapes

Here is a list of audio tapes (excluding music) available from...
A/isi/nteacht Da/iliu/cha/n Leabhar
31 Sra/id na bhFini/ni/
Baile A/tha Cliath 2
E/ire

(Book Distribution Center)
(31 Fenian Street)
(Dublin 2)
(Ireland)

Prices are in Irish pounds but do not include postage (which can be considerable for air mail orders). If you wish to order any of this material you should first write, phone (Dublin 616522), or fax (Dublin 616564), for a price quotation that includes surface or air postage.

[Note: V.A.T. is Value Added Tax. It is applied to tapes but not to books unless the books and tapes are sold as a unit. However there seem to be exceptions to this generality. Purchasers outside the European Union should be able to claim V.A.T. exemption]

Am Sce/alai/ochta I
Stories for young children:
Sici/n Lici/n; Na Tri/ Bhe/ar
Book and Tape 3.99 (no tax?)

Am Sce/alai/ochta II
Stories for young children:
Na Tri/ Mhuc Bheaga
An Circi/n Beag Rua
Book and Tape 3.99 (no tax?)

Foclo/ir Po/ca - Caise/ad
Phonetic Tape prepared to accompany Foclo/ir Po/ca, an English-Irish/ Irish-English dictionary of the synthetic Standard
Irish dialect 4.00 + V.A.T.

I/osaga/n & Sce/alta Eile.
Collection of short stories by Pa/draig Pearse. 4.87 +V.A.T. These stories are also available in print as "Short Stories of Pa/draig Pearse" which can be obtained for 4.95 (no tax).

Uair An Chloig Cois Teallaigh - AN HOUR BY THE HEARTH
Dual Language Book and Tape compendium of folk stories 10.00 (no tax?)

Educational Services Teaching Cassettes
Language/30
Irish/Gaelige
Two cassettes with a small phrase dictionary.

Educational Services Corporation
1725 K St., N.W., Suite 408
Washington, D.C. 20006
+1-(202) 298-8424
Review: This is a conversation course with minimal grammar (next to none). I'm finding it very useful to start off with, as it teaches phrases, which give me a useable foothold with the language, and it repeats the Gaelic twice after the English is spoken.

Summer courses in Irish Gaelic

NOTE: Additional information is available in the file IGSGUSA CLAS via the LISTSERV@IRLEARN.UCD.IE with the command GET IGSGUSA CLAS

Information concerning courses in spoken Irish (for adult learners) is available from the contact numbers given below.If you are thinking of visiting Ireland this summer, you might consider building into your holiday plans one of these short, intensive courses in Irish Gaelic. The division below is according to dialect:

  1. Gaeilge Chu/ige Uladh: 01-213566 or 073-3005 ("Oideas Gael") for Ulster Irish
  2. Gaeilge Chu/ige Chonnacht: 091-95101 ("A/ras an Chadhnaigh") for Connacht Irish
  3. Gaeilge Chu/ige Mumhan: 066-56100 ("Oidhreacht Chorca Dhuibhne") for Munster Irish
Here are three snailmail addresses to write to for info on those summer courses:
  1. Gaeilge Chu/ige Uladh: Fo/n: 353-1-213566 or 353-073-3005
    ("Oideas Gael") if you wish to learn Ulster Irish.
    Seoladh(address):
    Oideas Gael,
    Gleann Cholm Cille,
    Contae Thi/r Chonaill,
    E/ire(Ireland)
  2. Gaeilge Chu/ige Chonnacht: Fo/n: 353-091-95101
    ("A/ras Mha/irti/n Ui/ Chadhain") if you wish to learn Connacht Irish.
    Seoladh(address):
    A/ras Mha/irti/n Ui/ Chadhain,
    An Cheathru/ Rua,
    Contae na Gaillimhe,
    E/ire(Ireland)
  3. Gaeilge Chu/ige Mumhan: Fo/n: 353-066-56100
    ("Oidhreacht Chorca Dhuibhne") if you wish to learn Munster Irish.
    Seoladh(address):
    Oidhreacht Chorca Dhuibhne,
    Baile an Fheirte/araigh,
    Contae Chiarrai/,
    E/ire(Ireland)

Availability of Irish Gaelic books, videos and music

NOTE: Additional information is available in the file IGJTM1 BIBL and IGJTM2 BIBL via the LISTSERV@IRLEARN.UCD.IE with the commands GET IGJTM1 BIBL GET IGJTM2 BIBL

Name: Irish Books
Address:
580 Broadway, Room 1103,
New York, New York. 10012
USA
Phone: (212) 274-1923

Name: Schoenhof's Foreign Books
Address:
76A Mount Auburn Street
Cambridge, Massachusetts
02138
Phone: (617) 547 - 8855
Fax: (617) 547 - 8551

Part 5. - Politics

Political parties in Northern Ireland

The terms used to describe the various groups in Northern Irish politics are sometimes misunderstood, and misused.

The two major divisions are Nationlist and Unionist. Nationalist is used to describe those people who wish to see Ireland as a single independent Nation, whereas Unionist refers to those people wishing to see the continuance of the Union between N. Ireland and Great Britain. Current estimates of the population of N. Ireland put the split at roughly 60% unionist, 40% nationalist.

(Note that there is sometimes a subtle difference in whether the word is written with an initial capital or not, e.g. 'unionist' indicating a general connection with the idea, 'Unionist' implying a more direct political involvement especially relating to one of the Unionist political parties.)

The terms 'Republican' and 'Loyalist' will also be heard. Republican imples an extreme form of Nationalism, Loyalist an extreme form of Unionism. The terms are usually used to describe groups who advocate the use of violence to achieve political aims.

Within the two main groups are a number of smaller divisions, usually defined by their representative political parties. This list offers a spectrum of the major parties, from generally 'most pro-Irish' to 'most pro-British"

[note, any more accurate voting figures are welcome, perhaps David Boothroyd can help here?]

Sinn Fe/in. The political representatives of the Republican Movement. This is the more extreme minority of the nationalist groups, generally regarded as being in sympathy with the IRA's use of violence to achieve political change. Supported by approximately 12% of the population in Northern Ireland, 1.4% in the Irish Republic. Led by Gerry Adams.

The Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP). Regarded as the representative of moderate nationalism, it is commited to the establishment of a single Irish nation, but adamantly opposed to the use of violence to force this on people. Its representatives are forthright in their criticism of the IRA and its methods. Supported by approximately 30% of the population in NI. Led by John Hume.

The Alliance party. A centrist party often viewed as unionist in its leanings, but its stated aims are simply to bring people in NI together as one community. Not well supported, it draws support from very moderate unionists, and also from some catholics who feel their future lies with the UK but who cannot support the outright bigotry of some unionist parties or politicians. [voting %?]. Led by John Alderdice.

The Official Unionist Party (OUP). The larger of the two Unionist parties, it is firmly committed to maintaining the links with Great Britian. Not overtly religious in nature, but has close if indirect links with the protestant Orange Order. Drawing support mainly from moderate and middle-class unionists it opposes the use of violence, condemning that from both IRA and Loyalist groups such as the UVF and UFF. Led by James Molyneaux

The Democratic Unionist Party (DUP). Formed in 1971 by Ian Paisley as a breakaway group from the Unionist Party, because of fears that the mainstream party was weak. As to be expected from its fundamentalist leader, the DUP is fiercely protestant and pro-British in character. It draws support from the moderate-to-extreme parts of the unionist population. Although publicly opposed to violence, the same cannot be said for a section of its supporters.

Contraception, Divorce, Abortion, Homosexuality in Ireland.

Abortion

[Note: As recommended in the "Welcome to talk.abortion" posting, I am referring to the sides as prolife and prochoice. This is not intended in anyway to reflect my personal feelings on the use of these terms].

Abortion has been illegal in Ireland since at least 1869. The 1983 referendum added a clause which guarantees the `Right to Life' to the Unborn from the moment of conception. The general consensus among the prolife campaigners was that there was now a constitutional prohibition on abortion, and abortion would never be introduced into Ireland.

It is now illegal to give out names & addresses of abortion clinics in Ireland. As a result no imported magazines or newspapers were allowed to sell issues which advertise abortion clinics.

In 1992, the Attorney General placed an injunction against a 14 year old rape victim (Ms. X) going to England to have an abortion. The family of statutory rape victim X had approached the police and offered to let the aborted foetus be used as evidence against the (alleged) rapist. Police then approached the Attorney General who went to the High Court as allowing X to go abroad would breach the "Right to Life" of X's foetus. The High Court then granted the injunction.

In a state of near national hysteria, the Supreme Court overturned the ruling, and declared that under the 1983 amendment, Ms. X was entitled to have an abortion in Ireland as she was threatening to commit suicide. The preliminary verdict was given on Friday, X had an abortion over the weekend [presumably in the UK ?] and the full ruling followed on Tuesday suggesting that X has a right to have an abortion in Ireland.

The government moved fairly quickly, and a second referendum was held in November 1992, at the same time as a General election. The referendum consisted of three questions, the Right to travel, the Right to information and the Substansive Issue. While people voted for the right to information and the right to travel, the results from the vote on the Substantive issue were less conclusive, with both sides claiming victory. However, the government has failed to legislate on the basis of the ruling in X.

The governments case was not helped by the Irish Medical Council ruling that any doctor who performs an abortion should be struck of the register, a decision later endorsed by the Irish Medical Organisation. Majority of the IMO regard abortion as unneccessary for life-saving reasons & doctors can be struck off. The Medical Insurance companies (for doctors) believe failure to peform abortion in life threatening circumstance could result in neglience charges etc.

The whole situation is desperately confused and no one knows if abortion is legal or illegal, constitutional or unconstitutional & that the government is in no rush to deal with this hot potato.
[Note: Abortion is technically legal in the North, but rarely carried out.]

Divorce

Divorce is not permitted in Ireland. It is however possible to get an annulment under certain restricted circumstances. Annulments only apply to religous marriages and not for civil ones.

[Does anyone know what legally happens if you remarry, is it considered as bigamy ?]

A referundum on divorce was going to be held in Autumn 1994, but a report in the Irish Times on Wednesday April 27th 1994 suggests that the referundum will not be held until Spring 1995.

Contraception

Condom machines are commonplace throughout the country.

Homosexuality

Homosexual acts were illegal in Ireland up until the summer of 1993. The offences against the person acted lifted the ban, and declared the age of consent to be 17, the same as that for heterosexual sex.

Part 6. - Sport

LOI soccer mailing list
For discussion of League of Ireland and Irish league soccer Email thomas@maths.tcd.ie [dwmalone@maths.tcd.ie during the summer]

Part 7. - History

Why Ireland is divided into the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland?

Ireland (all or part of it, at various times) was a colony of the English (originally the Anglo-Normans) from the 12th century. From the late middle ages it was a kingdom, under the same monarch as England, but a separate country. In law and in practice, the Irish government was usually subordinate to the English government.

The 17th century saw several wars in England and Ireland: civil wars, colonial wars, and at least one war (c. 1690) that was part of a wider European conflict. Following some of these disruptions, the winners forcibly transferred ownership of large amounts of land to new landlords, and sometimes new tenants: those who had supported the winning side, and/or those who they felt would support them in the future.

The net effect of this was to disenfranchise and alienate the Gaelic/Catholic (Roman Catholic) majority population (aristocracy and common people alike) and some of the older Anglo-Irish families, and establish a new ruling elite of Anglo-Irish (people of English background, and also anglicized Irish) members of the Church of Ireland (Anglican/Episcopalian). This "Protestant Ascendancy" lasted well into the 19th century, with traces still in evidence today.

In addition, there was another transplant population in Ireland, mainly in the north-east (part of the northern province of Ulster): Presbyterians (historically know as Dissenters) from Scotland (also England and even Germany), and other nonconformist Christians (especially Friends (ie Quakers)). They started arriving in the 16th century, and their numbers grew in the 17th. During this period they and the Protestant Ascendancy were not close allies: there were significant differences in background, social class and style of Protestantism.

Both the Catholic majority and the Presbyterians were the victims of discriminatory laws favouring the Church of Ireland. Generally, though, the discrimination against Catholics was worse than that against the nonconformists.

In 1800, Ireland was technically made one with England, Scotland and Wales, in the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Ireland. In some ways, this was a Good Thing for Ireland, as it led to electoral reform, land reform, and the disestablishment of the Church of Ireland and its right to tax the whole population. But the colonial relationship remained, and as freedoms grew without real equality with England and the English, so did Irish nationalism develop and flourish. As the 19th century moved on, independence became inevitable.

But there was a complicating factor. In the late 18th and early 19th century, the Ascendancy and the Presbyterians had begun to become allies on political and nationalistic issues. As Irish nationalism developed (mainly among Catholics), so, in response, did unionism (the desire to preserve the United Kingdom) develop and strengthen among both kinds of Protestant. Several times, the unionists threatened insurrection against their own government in order to stay under that government.

Fast forward to the First World War. The British Parliament had passed an Irish Home Rule bill, but its implementation was delayed because of the war. A small band of Irish Republicans, holding that independence was Ireland's of right and not in England's gift, staged an armed rebellion (the Easter Rising) in 1916, briefly taking over a small part of central Dublin. The government acted harshly, executing several of the rebels, and cracking down hard in general. This led most of the country to side with the rebel cause. It quickly became ungovernable by Britain.

But the unionists still held the north, and they would in turn rebel if Britain cast them loose. To avoid a civil war, the government in late 1921 forced nationalist negotiators to accept partition. The Irish Free State and Northern Ireland were born. Each had its own Parliament; each was to be separate from Great Britain but under the Crown.

But it didn't work out like that. The South altered it's constitution in 1937 severing most of it's links with the UK. It then declared itself a Republic in 1948/49 ending all links.

However, there were other ways in which the arrangement failed, too. Firstly, civil war was not avoided; its focus was just shifted. Instead of being between unionists and nationalists, it turned out to be between those in the Free State who accepted partition and other conditions of the peace treaty, and those who refused to accept it.

Secondly, the northern unionists, suddenly a majority in their new state, discriminated against the nationalists, and in turn the nationalists never fully accepted the legitimacy of the new constitutional arrangements. Some of them, known as republicans, continued a violent campaign against the London and Belfast governments; in turn, the authorities continued to exercise extraordinary powers to fight them. The community was divided. The fact that this division of national identity was roughly along Protestant-Catholic lines only made things worse.

Thirdly, the Boundary Commission which was set up as part of the Treaty to examine a realignment of the Border failed. Instead of returning Fermanagh, and parts of Derry, Armagh and Down to the South, the chairman ruled that parts of the Free State be handed over to the North. The Free State rejected this and there was no realignment. As a result that areas that would have preferred to be in the South were denied that opportunity. This exacerbated the problems mentioned in the previous paragraph.

In the 1960s, the republicans gave up violence and turned either to politics or to retirement. But a new civil rights movement arose, to protest and correct the discrimination against Catholics. This met a hostile and violent response from sections of the Protestant population, including sections of the police force. The Irish Republican Army was revived, in a new and more vicious form. Civil disorder grew. The Belfast government could not cope and was biased. The London government put troops on the streets to keep the factions apart at the end of the 1960s, and abolished the Belfast government (known as Stormont, for the place where it was based) a couple of years later.

The level of violence is now much less than it was in the early 1970s, and Northern Ireland is actually a much safer place than the news makes it seem, but it still has not achieved full and "normal" political and social stability. The gun is still regarded by too many as a means of political expression. Large parts of the population refuse to accept the legitimacy of the political views and sense of national identity of "the other sort."

For most of the century, the North has been more prosperous than the South, but the gap has been closing. The South has become richer; the Troubles have been a drag on the Northern economy in spite of financial support from London. Common membership in the European Union (formerly Community) has also served to lessen differences and remove the customs and excise function of the border.

Another way in which differences are lessening is the religious makeup of the population. Catholics, though still a minority in the North, are now a larger proportion than earlier. In another few decades, it's conceivable that they may hold the majority.

Chronological list of dates of Irish History

"Really" brief outline of some important dates in Irish history

c.3000BC - Megalithic tombs first constructed.
c.700BC - Celts arrive from parts of Gaul and Britain. Ireland divided into provinces. (This according to a contributor is reconstructed folk history and not based on the archaeology.)
c.AD350 - Christianity reaches Ireland.
432 - Traditional date for the arrival of St. Patrick in Ireland.
700-800 - Irish monasticism reaches its zenith.
795 - Full-scale Viking invasion.
1014 - Brian Boru/ defeats Vikings at Clontarf, but is murdered.
1169 - Dermot MacMurrough, exiled king of Leinster, invites help from 'Strongbow'.
1172 - Pope decrees that Hery II of England is feudal lord of Ireland.
1366 - Statues of Kilkenny belatedly forbid intermarriage of English and Irish. Gaelic culture unsuccessfully suppressed.
1534-40 - Failed insurrection by Lord Offaly.
1541 - Henry VIII proclaimed king (rather than feudal lord) of Ireland
1558-1603 - Reign of Elizabeth I. Policy of Plantation begins. System of counties adopted.
1595-1603 - Failed uprising of Hugh O'Neil.
1607 - Flight of the Earls; leading Ulster families go into exile.
1641 - Charles I's policies cause insurrection in Ulster and Civil War in England.
1649 - Cromwell invades Ireland.
1653 - Under the Act of Settlement Cromwell's opponents stripped of land.
1689-90 - Deposed James II flees to Ireland; defeated at the Battle of the Boyne.
1704 - Penal Code enacted; Catholics barred from voting, education and the military.
1775 - American War of Independence forments Irish unrest.
1782 - Grattan's Parliament persuades British to declare Irish independence, but in name only.
1795 - Foundation of the Orange Order.
1798 - Wolfe Tone's uprising crushed.
1801 - Ireland becomes part of Britain under the Act of Union.
1829 - Catholic Emancipation Act passed after Daniel O'Connell elected as MP.
1845-48 - The Great Famine.
1879-82 - The Land War; Parnell encourages boycott of repressive landlords.
1914 - Implementation of Home Rule postponed because of outbreak of World War I.
1916 - Easter Rising. After the leaders are executed public opinion backs independence.
1920-21 - War between Britain and Ireland; Irish Free State and Northern Ireland created.
1922 - Civil war breaks out.
1932 - De Valera elected.
1969 - Rioting between Catholics and Protestants. British troops called in.
1971 - Provisional IRA begins campaign to oust British troops from Ireland.
1972 - UK and Republic of Ireland join European Community. 'Bloody Sunday' in Derry.
1985 - Anglo-Irish Agreement signed.

Part 8. - Books & Papers

Subscriptions to newspapers

The Irish Times is currently offering 32 issues for the price of 26.
England, Scotland & Wales - IR#28.60
Airmail Continental Europe - IR#46.02
Airmail Outside Europe, Incl. US - IR#72.02

The offer is open until 30 June, 1994.
Subscriptions Department
+353-1-6792022 or Fax:+353-1-6791321
The Irish Times Newspapers Ltd.
P.O. Box 74
10/16 D'Olier St.
Dublin 2
Ireland

The Irish Times is available in NYC in "Hoatling's International News". Hoatlings is on the south side of 42nd st. Most Borders stores in the Mid-West (USA) also stock it. The Bay Area is very good for Irish papers. In Berkeley, you can get the Saturday edition of the Irish Times, the Sunday Independent and the Monday edition of the Irish independent at Whelan's on Bancroft and Dave's Smoke Shop in the shopping mall off Durant.
Harold International news stand in San Francisco is even better, offering the above, plus the Sunday Press, Sunday World (!), Saturday's Cork Examiner and most of the weekly provincial press, as well as Hot Press.
Book Soup on Sunset Boulevard in LA stocks the Sunday Independent.

Hot Press (music press) is currently charging the following
UK: UK#30
Ireland: Ir#30
Rest of Europe: Ir#45
US/Canada: $90
Rest of World: Ir#85

Hot Press
13 Trinity Street
Dublin 2
Ireland
tel: (01) 6795077
Hot Press
Osnovina Ltd
c/o Stanley Plitt
230 East 44th Street
Cheques made out to Osnovina Ltd.

'Fortnight' magazine: a monthly dealing with politics, arts and culture in Ireland and beyond, with an emphasis on Northern Ireland. Non-partisan. Editorial is slightly left-of-center and emphasizes internal political solutions for Northern Ireland.

Fortnight Magazine, 11 issues per year
7 Lower Crescent, [So why is it called Fortnight ?]
Belfast BT7 1NR,
Northern Ireland.

UK: UK#23 unwaged/students/prisoners UK#15 IR18
Ireland: Ir#25.50
Rest of Europe: UK#26.50
Far East: UK#39
Rest of World: UK#32.50

'Northern Ireland Report': a newsletter on Northern Ireland politics. Its banner states:

"NIR is an independent publication and is not affiliated with any political party, group or organization in Northern Ireland or the United States"

Editorial is left/republican-leaning, but articles from all shades of political opinion in Northern Ireland are printed.

Northern Ireland Report,
PO Box 9086,
Lowell, MA 01853.
Tel. +1 413 467 7860
Subscription: U.S. $20.00 (10 issues, 1/94 price)

List of books

FTP to ceolas.stanford.edu (/pub/misc/celtic.biblio) or yeats.csufreson.edu for an extensive list of Celtic books.

Name: A Treasury of Irish Myth, Legend and Folklore

Name: Modern Ireland 1600-1972
Author: R.F.Foster
Publisher: Penguin
ISBN: 0-14-013250-3

Name: In Search of a State - Catholics in Northen Ireland
Author: Fionnuala O'Connor
Publisher: The Blackstaff Press
ISBN: 0-85640-509-4

Name: Ten Men Dead - The Story of the 1981 Hunger Strike
Author: David Beresford
Publisher: Grafton
ISBN: 0-586-06533-4

Name: The Druids
Author: Norah Chadwick
Publisher: Penguin

Name: The Celts
Author: Norah Chadwick
Publisher: Penguin

Name: The Celts
Author: Frank Delany

Name: Down by the Claddagh
Author: Peadar O'Dowd
Publisher: Kennys of Galway
Price: #17.95

Name: Classic Irish Recipes
Author: Gerogina Campbell
Publisher: Grafton Books
ISBN: 0-8069-8444-9

*The Great Famine: Studies in Irish History: 1845-53* ed D. Edwards & D. Williams, 1956.
*The Great Hunger: Ireland 1845-1849* Cecil Woodham-Smith. 1962. Reprinted as Penguin ppbk 1991. Currently available in major book stores.
*History of the Great Irish Famine of 1847* J. O'Rourke. 1874. Reprinted by Veritas 1989. 1st major book about Irish famine.
*The Famine in Ireland* Mary Daly. 1986. 138pp.
*The Great Irish Famine* Cormac O Grada. Repr. 1992. 87pp.
*The Visitation of God?: The Potato and the Great Irish Famine* Austin Bourke. ed Jacqueline Hill, Cromac O Grada. 1993. 230 pp.
*Paddy's Lament: Ireland 1846-47* Thomas Gallagher. 1982. 345 pp. American author. Currentyly available in ppk in major bookstores.
*Famine: The Irish Experience 900-1900 - Subsistence Crisis and Famines in Ireland* ed E. Margaret Crawford. 1994.
*"The History and Social Influence of the Potato* Redcliffe Salaman. 1949. Repr 1987.

Fiction:
The greats: James Joyce, Samuel Beckett, George Bernard Shaw, Jonathan Swift, Flann O'Brien, Brendan Behan, Oscar Wilde
The modern: John McGahern, Brian Moore, Edna O'Brien, William Trevor
The contemporary: Dermot Bolger, Colm Tobin, Patrick McCabe, Roddy Doyle, John Banville

The playwrights:
Synge, O'Casey, Shaw, Beckett

The poets:
Yeats, Paddy Kavanagh, Seamus Heaney, Gogarty

Part 9. - Internet information services (from Sean)

Ireland has an excellent weekly electronic news available from Liam Ferrie at a yearly subscription rate of IR#25, STG#24 or $35. Its free for academic sites.

Irish Emigrant (News from Ireland) list:
Subscribe: ferrie@iol.ie

The 8 a.m. RTE radio news is available by FTP, WWW, and Gopher from sunsite.unc.edu.
Look for /pub/academic/languages/gaelic/rte The files are sound files of about 2-3 Mbytes.

This area is an EXPERIMENTAL demonstration project. Its aim is to assess the viability of making small segments of news broadcasts from RTE, the Irish National Radio service, available on the internet via anonymous ftp and the world wide web. There are currently two programs recorded: RTE Radio 1 "Morning Ireland" 8AM News (7 minutes weekdays, 5 minutes weekends) and RTE Radio 1 Nuacht (news in the Irish language, 3 minutes). The latter will be available from July 28 on, barring technical problems, and will have filenames prefixed with "nuacht_".

*** Users in the RTE listening area are asked to please use their radios; the primary aim of this experiment is to make a little bit of RTE broadcasting available to those of us who are out of range and cannot pick up RTE directly. Your cooperation in keeping the bandwidth on this server down is appreciated.

*** Australian users please note! The latest .au file can be obtained from pell.anu.edu.au (150.203.33.4) in /pub/obrien/latest.au. It is copied starting at 1845 Australian EST Monday-Friday and usually takes 30 minutes to copy. Earlier files are *not* maintained there, and the service is "as is"; please don't complain to Eamonn O'Brien (who was kind enough to set this mirroring up) if the file has problems.

Sunsite also offers information concerning Gaelic and Gaelic Culture. The url address for WWW is:
http://sunsite.unc.edu/gaelic/gaelic.html
or
/pub/academic/languages/gaelic via ftp.

Sunsite contains information on/in irish gaelic, scottish gaelic and hopefully soon manx gaelic. Lesson(s) with accompanying audio files are available for scottish gaelic.

http:

Kennys Bookshop and Gallery (of Galway, Ireland) now have their entire book catalog on the Web.
Site: http://www.iol.ie/resource/kennys/welcome.html

CURIA Project: Thesaurus Linguarum Hiberni?
Site: http://curia.ucc.ie/

Trinity College Dublin Home Page
Site: http://www.maths.tcd.ie/index.html
Site: http://www.bess.tcd.ie

Pat Murphy's maze of twisty little passages
Site: http://orangutan.cv.nrao.edu/

University Limerick ITDSRV1 Entry Point
Site: file://itdsrv1.ul.ie/pub/webac/home-page.html

Ireland: The Internet Collection
Site: file://itdsrv1.ul.ie/pub/webac/Information/Ireland.html

Ireland-On-Line
Site: http://www.iol.ie/IOL-HOME.html

Ireland's Web Servers
Site: http://itdsrv1.ul.ie/Information/ServerMapIreland

University College Dublin
Site: gopher://gopher.ucd.ie/

Irish Constitution
Site: http://www.maths.tcd.ie/pub/Constitution/index.html

Peace Declaration
Site: http://www.bess.tcd.ie/dclrtn.html

Ireland On-line
Site: http://www.iol.ie
gopher://gopher.iol.ie

GNN Home Page
Site: http://www.iol.ie/IOL-HOME.html

Broadcom
Site: http://www.broadcom.ie
Note: Choose option [1] from the home page to get to pointers to other sites.

ftp:

Gaelic-L archive:
Site: YEATS.CSUFRESNO.EDU

Welsh-L archive:
Site: SUNSITE.UNC.EDU

Music archive:
Site: FTP.UWP.EDU

Celtic Music archive:
Site: CELTIC.STANFORD.EDU

Celtic GIF/JPEG archive:
Site: ORANGUTAN.CV.NRAO.EDU:/pub/images/pmurphy/pub/images/celt

Irish Emmigrant archive:
Site: ftp.cs.cornell.edu in pub/irish-emigrant
[gopher.iol.ie has more up to date issues.]

lists:

(Note if it's a listserv then just mail the command SUB list_name your_name, otherwise you send a message to the contact)

Celtic Linguist list: celtling@MIT.EDU
Contact: Andrew H Carnie carnie@MIT.EDU>
Irish Studies list: irish-studies@CC.SWARTHMORE.EDU
Contact: Michael Durkan mdurkan1@CC.SWARTHMORE.EDU
Subscribe: Listserv@CC.SWARTHMORE.EDU

Celtic-L list: celtic-l@IRLEARN.UCD.IE
Subscribe: Listserv@IRLEARN.UCD.IE

IrTrad-L (Irish traditional music) list: irtrad-l@IRLEARN.UCD.IE
Subscribe: Listserv@IRLEARN.UCD.IE

Irl-Pol (Irish politics) list: irl-pol@IRLEARN.UCD.IE
Subscribe: Listserv@IRLEARN.UCD.IE

Ireland (Mostly politics) list: ireland@RUTVM1.RUTGERS.EDU
Subscribe: Listserv@RUTVM1.RUTGERS.EDU

Irl-News (News and articles) list: Irl-News@RUTVM1.RUTGERS.EDU
Subscribe: Listserv@RUTVM1.RUTGERS.EDU

Gaelic-M (Same as Gaelic-L except for MIME support)
Contact: kelley@ede.sanders.lockheed.com

Gaelic-L List: gaelic-l@IRLEARN.UCD.IE
Language(s): Celtic, Goidelic; PB1201-PB1847
Irish, Scottish, & Manx Gaelic (GAELIC-L) (not restricted to linguistics; also for learners; contributions in a Gaelic language preferred)
Listserver:
listserv@irlearn.bitnet
listserv@irlearn.ucd.ie
listserv%irlearn.ucd.ie@uk.ac.earn-relay

For questions, contact:
mgunn@irlearn.ucd.ie (Marion Gunn)
caoimhin@smo.ac.uk (Caoimhi/n O/ Donnai/le)
craig@scot.demon.co.uk (Craig Cockburn)

Welsh-L List: welsh-l@IRLEARN.UCD.IE
Language(s): Celtic, Brittonic; PB2101-PB2849
Welsh (also Breton, Cornish) (WELSH-L) (not restricted to linguistics; also for learners; contributions in a Brittonic language preferred)
Listserver:
listserv@irlealearn.bitnet
listserv@irlearn.ucd.ie
listserv%irlearn.ucd.ie@uk.ac.earn-relay

For questions, contact:
everson@irlearn.ucd.ie (Michael Everson)
briony@cstr.ed.ac.uk (Briony Williams)

League of Ireland Mailing List: LOIsoccer@maths.tcd.ie
Mailing list for Irish - North & South - soccer discussions, including LOI, ROI Internationals, Northern Ireland league etc.
Contact: thomas@maths.tcd.ie

TOPPSI's list of Irish bulletin boards

Name SysOp Speeds Times Phone No.
Connect-Ireland/aka TOPPSI David Doyle
(Lines 2/3/4)
V21/22/22bis/32/HST
V21/22/22bis/32/32bis
24hrs
24hrs
+353-1-6711047
+353-1-6773547
Connect-Ireland is FidoNet node 2:263/151 and concentrates on community, youth, education and social topics. Official Apogee distribution site. GreenNet and K-12 links. Lines 2 to 4 are 'banked' on the same phone number. Internet Email access as (user)@toppsi.gn.apc.org
Infomatique Liam Murphy
(Line 2)
V21/22/22bis/32/32bis
V21/22/22bis/HST
24hrs
24hrs
+353-1-8721232
+353-1-8721239
Run on an AMIGA 3000 using DLG Professional - one of Ireland's first BBS! Supports Amiga, Atari and PC.
SIX Stephen Kearon V21/22/22bis/32/32bis(4 lines) 24hrs +353-1-6789000
McAfee Agents for Ireland. FidoNet node 2:263/167. Alcom/ZyXEL/Gammafax/MegaHertz support.
Nemesis' Dungeon Andy Mowatt
(Line 2)
V21/22/22bis/32/32bis/HST16K8
V21/22/22bis/32/32bis/FAX
24hrs
24hrs
+353-1-324755
+353-1-326900
Amiga based, multi-computer support. FidoNet node 2:263/150
FrEd Mail Conor Mac Hale V21/22/22bis 24hrs +353-1-2889783
(Free Educational Mail) Trans-Atlantic, European and Australian penpals and inter-school projects are encouraged. Co-SysOps are Tom O Briain and Damien Cox.
Electronic Keith Whyte V21/22/22bis/32/32bis 24hrs +353-1-6611433
Media Net Specialises in MIDI, music and the music industry. FidoNode 2:263/153
Alien Line Gavin McConnon V21/22/22bis/32/32bis 24hrs +353-1-2800742
Mainly Amiga but also IBM support. Co-sysop is Christian Hayden. Runs on Amiga 4000/030 using DLG Pro. Star Trek areas.
Quarterdeck International BBS. George Hanratty V22/22bis/32 24hrs +353-1-284-4381
Provides support for QDK products. Many utilities available for DESQview and ported X-apps for DESQview/X.
i-Com   V21/22/22bis 24hrs +353-1-679-8924
Commercial 'gateway' to USA - $25/hour. Enter 'o' (letter oh) when connected; then enter 'i-com' to sign up. First time callers get free demo.
CUGI-BBS Jamie Ruane V22/22bis/32/32bis 24hrs +353-1-2832829
Commodore Users Group of Ireland BBS, supporting all Commodore computers and providing User Group information. Running on an Amiga A1200 under DLG-PRO, online facilities include CD-ROM and FidoNet (2:263/155.0). SysOps - Jamie Ruane and Colin Dalton.
DNA BBS Martin Shortall Kieran Reilly V21-V32bis 24hrs +353-1-549029
Atari ST based BBS.
Yukon Ho! Mark Kerr
(Line 2)
V21/22/22bis/32/32bis/HST
V21/22/22bis/32/32bis
24hrs
24hrs
+44-232-768163
+44-232-763639
Based in Belfast this is FidoNet node 2:443/59
Quasar! Dave Byrne V21/22/22bis/32/32bis/HST 24hrs +44-846-693067
Dromore, Co. Down. This is FidoNet node 2:443/10
Starship Gerry Martin V21/22/22bis/32/32bis/HST 24hrs +44-232-763014
Enterprise Based in Belfast. This is FidoNet node 2:443/21
NIBBS John Marrow V21/22/22bis/32/32bis 24hrs +44-662-247291
Based in Co. Tyrone. This is FidoNet node 2:443/70
The Village Harry Broadrick V21/22/22bis/32/32bis 24hrs +44-232-602972
Based in Belfast. This is FidoNet node 2:443/509
Special John McCormac V21/22/22bis/HST 24hrs +353-51-50143
Specialises in Ham Radio/TV/Satellite Communications both European and American. FidoNode 2:263/402
Ireland On-line Barry Flanagan
sales@iol.ie
V21/22/22bis/32/32bis/ZyXEL
V21/22/22bis/32/32bis/ZyXEL
24hrs
24hrs
+353-91-592711
+353-1-285-2700
Commercial system based in Galway with lines in Dublin as well. Several access options depending on subscription paid.
InfoNet Services Dairmaid O Cadhla
(line 2)
V21/22/22bis/32/32bis
V21/22/22bis/32/32bis
24hrs
24hrs
+353-21-892582
+353-21-294914
Commercial system based in Cork. FidoNode 2:263/201
CommCubed Tommy McCourt V21/22/22bis/32/32bis 24hrs +44-????
A TOPPSI mirror system in Derry - currently being tested.
Connect West Graham Lightfoot V21/22/22bis/32/32bis 24hrs +353-61-????
A TOPPSI mirror system in Clare - currently being tested.
STYX John McKeon V21/22/22bis 24hrs +353-61-338228
PC based BBS based in Limerick. FidoNode 2:263/271
Reflex AV-BBS Richard Foley V21/22/22bis 24hrs +353-51-83771
Mainly concerned with virus and security issues. Fido 2:263/401
Digital Paradise Martin Browne V21/22/22bis/32/32bis 24hrs +353-1-8208291
Supporting Amiga/IBM PC users.
EXEC Donal O Beirne V21/22/22bis/32/32bis 24hrs +353-61-229998
Supporting a mix of Home/Games users
TechBase John Buswell V21/22/22bis/32/32bis 24hrs +353-66-28929
BBS dedicated to Star Trek and especially Deep Space Nine. Also online technical database. FidoNode 2:263/250
TheEnd! - part two Des Gibbons V21/22/22bis/32/32bis 24hrs +353-1-8321673
Concentrates on PC software and utilities. FidoNode 2:263/79
GameStorm Declan Lynch V21/22/22bis 21:00-11:00 +353-1-920224
Run by computer game rental company. Contains stock lists and competition details. Fidonode 2:263/156
The Highway To Hell Iain Black V21/22/22bis 22:00-08:00 wk +353-1-8475217
Concentrates on Amiga and C64. 22:00-13:00 w/e Online games.
Fidonode 2:263/154. Compuserve: via a PAD (+353-1-676 8800 @ 2400 b.p.s.)
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main Irish backbone

Part 10. - Cuisine

From: Stepanie de Silva

Corned Beef & Cabbage

1 3/4 lbs onions
2 1/2 lbs carrots
6 lb corned beef brisket or round, spiced or unspiced
1 cup malt vinegar
6 oz Irish stout
1 tablespoon mustard seed
1 tablespoon coriander seed
1/2 tablespoon black peppercorns
1/2 tablespoon dill seed
1/2 tablespoon whole allspice
2 bay leaves
3 lb cabbage, rinsed
2 1/2 lb small red potatoes
1/2 cup coarse grain mustard
1/2 cup dijon mustard

To serve 12, use a 14 to 20 quart pan.

Coarsely chop enugh onions and carrots to make 1 cup each. In pan, place onions and carrots, corned beef with any liquid, vinegar, stout, mustard seed, coriander, peppercorns, dill, allspice and bay leaves. Add water to barely cover beef. Cover pan and bring to a boil over high heat. Simmer until meat is tender when pierced, 2 1/2 to 3 hours.

Meanwhile, cut remaining onions into wedges. Cut remaining carrots into 2-inch lengths; halve them lengthwise if large. Cut cabbages in half through cores, then into wedges. Scrub potatoes.

Add onions, carrots and potatoes to tender corned beef, place cabbage on top. Cover and return to simmering over high heat; reduce heat and simmer until cabbage is tender when pierced, 15 to 20 minutes.

With a slotted spoon scoop out vegetables onto warm serving dishes. Using tongs and a slotted spoon, remove beef to a cutting board; cut off and discard fat, slice meat across the grain and place on warm platters. Serve meat and vegetables with coarse-grain and dijon mustards.

Colcannon

4 lb russet potatoes
1 lb cabbage, cute into fine shreds
1/2 cup butter
1 1/4 cup milk
1 cup sliced green onions
salt and pepper

To serve 12, you'll need a 5 to 6 quart pan. Peel potatoes; rinse. Drain; cute into 2 inch pieces. Place potatoes in pan; cover with water. Bring to a boil, covered, over high heat. Reduce heat; simmer until tender when pierced, about 15 minutes.

Drain; mash, part at a time, in a heavy-duty mixer or by hand in a large bowl. As mashed, transfer to a very large bowl; cover.

Place cabbage and butter in pan sued for potatoes. Cover; steam cabbage over medium-high heat until well wilted, stirring often. Meanwhile, stir milk and onions often in a 3 to 4 quart pan over medium heat until simmering. Stir milk mixture into potatoes until smooth, stir in cabbage. Season with salt and pepper.

Irish Soda Bread

3 cups all-purpose flour
3 tablespoons sugar
1 teaspoon baking soda
3/4 teaspoon salt
9 tablespoons butter
1 tablespoon caraway seed
1/2 cup golden raisins
1/3 cup dried currants
1 cup buttermilk for dough
1 1/2 tablespoons buttermilk for brushing

In a large bowl, combine flour, sugar, soda and salt. Cut in butter with a pastry blender or rub tih fingers until fine crumbs form. Mix in caraway, raisins and currants; add buttermilk for dough. Stir until evenly moistened.

Gather dough into a ball and knead about 16 turns on a lightly floured board. Pat into a smooth ball, then into a falt 1 inch thick round. Place on a greased 12 by 15 inch baking sheet.

Slash an X about 1/4 inch deep completely across each round; brush with remaining buttermilk. Bake in a 375F oven until deep golden, 30 to 35 minutes. Serve warm or cool. Cut into wedges.

Elaine's Shortbread

1 cup softened butter
1/2 cup + 1 tablespoon sugar
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/2 cup white rice flour (or more all-purpose)

In a large mixing bowl, beat butter with the larger amount of sugar until smooth.

Gradually add all-purpose and rice flours until well combined. Spread in a 9 by 13 inch baking dish. Bake in a 275F oven until pale golden, 55 to 65 minutes. Place on racks and let cool for 10 minutes. Sprinkle lightly with sugar, then cut into 24 bars. Let cool completely. Serve.

From: Chuck Narad

Irish Cabbage Potatoes (Colcannon)

8 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
1/2 head of cabbage
1 bunch scallions (green onions), chopped
milk
butter
dill (dried, or fresh chopped)
fresh ground black pepper

Shred the cabbage. Sautee it with a little butter, then reduce heat and cover; let it steam. When it is almost limp, add the scallions. (I'd probably add some garlic and an onion if I made this).

Meanwhile, boil, drain, mash the potatoes, add some milk and a little butter. Add the cabbage mixture, and stir in the dill and pepper.

From: Iain G Liddell

Scottish Shortbread

As far as shortbread is concerned, I'm a great believer in simplicity. The recipe for Balmoral Shortbread below is typical of this style.

However, with Scots cookery, one should never ignore Mistress Margaret (Meg) Dods. Her "Cook's and Housewife's Manual" was promoted (ghosted?) by Sir Walter Scott, who coined her pseudonym. The recipe for Petticoat Tails is described by Catherine Brown (Scottish Regional Recipes) as "a ladies' shortbread - men generally prefer thick fingers".

Other recipes call for additions such as rice flour, cornflour (cornstarch), lemon peel, ground or slivered almonds (or almond essence) but these are all just curlicues. As for the commercially produced Choc Chip Shortbread and Cherry Shortbread ... they are about as Scots as the Taj Mahal.

Iain

Balmoral Shortbread

375g plain flour
250g butter (nothing else will do)
125g sugar
salt

Note the 3:2:1 ratio - what could be simpler.

Preheat oven to 350F / 180C / Gas 4

Sift flour onto a board.
Put sugar in a separate pile on the board, and work in butter. Gradually knead in flour: you should end up with a firm dough. Flour the board and roll to a thickness of 3mm to 5mm. Cut into circles and prick with a fork. Bake on a greased tray for 30 minutes.

Petticoat Tails

(based on Meg Dods' Manual - see preamble)

200 g plain flour 75 g butter 25 g lard 50 g icing sugar (powdered sugar) 2 tsp caraway seeds

Preheat oven to 350F / 180C / Gas 4

Sift flour and sugar into a bowl.
Add butter and lard, and rub in completely.
Add caraway seeds; turn out onto a board, and knead till firm.
Roll out to 5mm thickness into a circle (or cut out a circle).
Cut into wedges the size you want and bake for 20-30 minutes until the shortbread is pale golden brown.
Dredge with caster sugar (superfine sugar?) while still hot.

From Deirdre Barr

Boxty

Here's the recipe for boxty, as per the Monica Sheridan cookbook.
2 Large raw potatoes
2 cups of mashed potatoes
1 teaspoon salt.
1 teaspoon baking-soda
2 tablespoons flour (approx)

Grate the raw potatoes & squeeze out the liquid. Add to the mashed potatoes & add salt. Mix the soda with the flour and add to the potatoes. Roll out on a floured board to a circle of a 1/2" thickness. Cut in 4 quarters & put on an ungreased griddle. Cook on a gentle heat for 30 to 40 minutes, turning the bread at half-time. The farls or quarters, should be well browned on bothe sides. Serves 4 You may add a teaspoon of caraway seeds, if you like.

Potato Cakes (1)

2 tablespoons butter
1 cup flour
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
3 cups freshly mashed potatoes.

Rub the butter into the flour. Add the baking powder and salt and mix well. Add the potatoes and bind all together with your hand. Roll out to quarter-inch thickness on a well floured board with a well-floured rolling pin. Cut in squares or stamp out with a cutter. Bake on an ungreased griddle until brown on both sides. Serve hot with running butter. Yields 12 cakes. (Cold potato cakes are often fried with the breakfast bacon)

Potato Cakes (2)

1 tablespoon flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 cups freshly mashed potatoes
2 teaspoons bacon drippings for the griddle.

Sprinkle the salted flour over the potatoes and knead lightly together. Roll out on a floured board to quarter-inch thickness. Cut in quarters or stamp out into rounds. Put on a greased griddle and cook on an even heat until both sides are well browned. When cooked, butter generously and eat at once. Yields 6-8 cakes. Major heart attack food but extremely tasty.

Part 11 - Miscelleous

Getting jobs in Ireland

INI, the International Network for Ireland will send you a monthly list of jobs available in Ireland for #30 a year. They also run a jobs fair every Christmas called the `High Skills Pool', which has taken place in Buswell's Hotel for the past couple of years. They are partly funded by the IDA and will give you information on companies in Ireland for free if you have any queries. You can also get an information pack on moving back to Ireland, e.g. what the tax rate is, etc.
INI
Powerhouse
Pigeon House Harbour
Dublin 4
Ireland
Phone:+353-1-668-7155
Fax: +353-1-668-7945
As yet they do not have an email address.

Brent Irish Advisory Service produce a handy booklet called, unsurprisingly, 'Moving to Ireland'. It details most of the important information you might need to know (health, education, housing, employment, etc.) about. You can obtain a copy from them at:
Electric House,
296 Willesden Lane,
London England NW2 5HW
Tel +44 (0)81 459 6286
Fax +44 (0)81 451 8865

Several recruitment agenices have email addresses.
Skillbase: pschmitz@skillbase.ie
Computer Placement: anne@cpl.ie
As with all recruitment agencies, do not expect a reply unless they are interested.

Friday's edition of the Irish Times is one of the best places to see what is on offer in Ireland. Subsciption information can be found in section 8.

Applying for Irish citizenship

Anyone who has a parent or grandparent born in the Republic of Ireland or Northern Ireland can get an Irish passport by applying to your local embassy or consulate.

You need to have the following :

  1. For the Irish grandparent, birth certificate and marriage license to whoever was the other grandparent of the applicant.
  2. For the parent (child of the Irish grandparent) birth certificate and marriage license to your other parent.
  3. For you: birth certificate

ALL of the above documents must have complete details that prove the connection. In other words, the birth certificate must show the names, dates of birth and places of birth of both your parents, so that they can be conclusively identified to be the same person mentioned on the marriage license and their own birth certificate. Irish documents seem to include these details automatically, but in the U.S., you may have to contact the Vital Statistics Bureau in the state of birth to get an official copy containing more details.

ALL of the documents must be official, i.e., must bear the raised stamp of the issuing agency.

You have to fill out forms, attach photographs and have it all witnessed, not by a notary public, but by a "clergyman, high school principal, lawyer or bank manager".

It costs about $160 if you are claiming through your parent(s), in addition to the cost of getting copies of the documents. If you are claiming citizenship based on your grandparent(s) then you need to pay $270 for Registration of Foreign Birth.

There's about a one-year backlog in processing applications.

What is a Claddagh ring?

There are many stories about the Claddagh ring. Claddagh itself refers to a small fishing village just near Galway city. The Claddagh ring supposedly originated in this area. The ring has a design of a heart being encircled by a pair of delicate hands with a crown above the heart. In earlier times this design was the symbol of the "Fishing Kings of Claddagh" meaning 'in love and friendship let us reign'. In the 17th century the symbol was first depicted on a ring which became the fashionable exchange of friends or lovers. In marriage the heart was worn towards the wrist otherwise towards the fingertips. There are many modern versions of the Claddagh Ring. Here are some folk legends about the Claddagh:

  1. Way back in the sandy mists of time, so the story went, it seemed as there was this king. This king was madly in love with a peasant woman, but as she was of a lower class the love had to go unrequited. In dread despair the king killed himself and had his hands lopped off and placed around his heart as a symbol of his undying love for the woman.
  2. It symbolizes love (heart), friendship/faith (hands) and loyalty (crown). Two hands Joined together in love and Crowned by the Glory of Christ.
  3. There was a Dublin version of this Ring that appeared some 100 years back with two hands and two Hearts but No Crown Some call this Version the Fenian Claddagh.
  4. The Crown to The Father, The Left hand to the Son, and the Right Hand the the Holy Ghost. This Explanation is directly Correlative to the Shamrock, one of the Earliest Symbols of the Holy Trinity among the Irish.
  5. Some will say Beathauile is the Crown, Anu is the Left hand, and the Dagda Mo/r is the Right hand and the Heart is the Hearts of all mankind and that which gives the everlasting music to the Gael.
  6. As legend has it, the town developed the ring (originally a sigil to be painted on ships and sails) to be worn by sailors of Claddagh. When these sailors would run into other fishermen in their waters, they would check for the sigil, and if they did not find it, they would kill them.
  7. The original Claddagh ring is generally attributed to one Richard Joyce, a native of Galway, who while being transported as a slave to the plantations of the West Indies was captured by Mediterranean pirates and sold to a Moorish goldsmith who trained him in his craft. In 1689 he was released and returned to Galway and set up his shop in the Claddagh. (The Claddagh is said to be the oldest fishing village in Ireland). By tradition the ring is taken to signify the wish that Love and Friendship should reign supreme. The hands signify friendship, the crown loyalty, and the heart love. The ring has become popular outside Connamera since the middle of the last century- its spread being helped by the vast exodus from the West during the great Famine in 1847-49. These rings were kept as heirlooms with great pride and passed from mother to daughter. Today, the ring is worn extensively across Ireland, either on the right hand with the heart turned outwards showing that the wearer is "fancy free" or with the heart turned inwards to denote that he or she is "spoken for". The pride of place is on the left hand, with the heart turned in, indicating that the wearer is happily married.

Irish National Anthem

As Gaeilge:

Seo dhibh a cha/irde duan O/glaigh,
Cathre/imeach briomhar ceolmhar,
A/r dtinte cna/mh go buacach ta/id,
'S an spe/ir go min re/altogach
Is fonnmhar faobhrach sinn chun gleo
'S go tiu/nmhar gle/ roimh thi/ocht do'n lo/
Fe/ chiu/nas chaomh na hoiche ar seol:
Seo libh canai/dh Amhra/n na bhFiann

Curfa/:
Sinne Firnna Fa/il
A ta/ fe/ gheall ag E/irinn,
buion da/r slua
Thar toinn do ra/inig chugainn,
Fe/ mho/id bheith saor.
Sean ti/r a/r sinsir feasta
Ni/ fhagfar fe/'n tiora/n na/ fe'/n tra/il
Anocht a the/am sa bhearna bhaoil,
Le gean ar Ghaeil chun ba/is no/ saoil
Le guna screach fe/ la/mhach na bpile/ar
Seo libh canai/dh Amhra/n na bhFiann.

Cois ba/nta re/idhe, ar a/rdaibh sle/ibhe,
Ba bhuachach a/r sinsir romhainn,
Ag la/mhach go tre/an fe/'n sa/r-bhrat se/in
Ta/ thuas sa ghaoith go seolta
Ba dhu/chas riamh d'a/r gcine cha/idh
Gan iompa/il siar o/ imirt a/ir,
'S ag siu/l mar iad i gcoinne na/mhad
Seo libh, canai/dh Amhra/n na bhFiann

Curfa/

A bhui/on na/ch fann d'fhuil Ghaeil is Gall,
Sin breacadh lae na saoirse,
Ta sce/imhle 's scanradh i gcroi/the namhad,
Roimh ranna laochra a/r dtire.
A/r dtinte is tre/ith gan spre/ach anois,
Sin luisne ghle/ san spe/ir anoir,
'S an bi/obha i raon na bpile/ar agaibh:
Seo libh, canai/dh Amhra/n na bh Fiann.

Curfa/

English translation

We'll sing song, a soldier's song,
With cheering rousing chorus,
As round our blazing fires we throng,
The starry heavens o'er us;
Impatient for the coming fight,
And as we wait the morning's light,
Here in the silence of the night,
We'll chant a soldier's song.

Chorus:
Soldiers are we
whose lives are pledged to Ireland;
Some have come
from a land beyond the wave.
Sworn to be free,
No more our ancient sire land
Shall shelter the despot or the slave.
Tonight we man the gap of danger
In Erin's cause, come woe or weal
'Mid cannons' roar and rifles peal,

We'll chant a soldier's song

In valley green, on towering crag,
Our fathers fought before us,
And conquered 'neath the same old flag
That's proudly floating o'er us.
We're children of a fighting race,
That never yet has known disgrace,
And as we march, the foe to face,
We'll chant a soldier's song

Chorus

Sons of the Gael! Men of the Pale!
The long watched day is breaking;
The serried ranks of Inisfail
Shall set the Tyrant quaking.
Our camp fires now are burning low;
See in the east a silv'ry glow,
Out yonder waits the Saxon foe,
So chant a soldier's song.

Chorus

Summer events: ( I realise many of these have passed, but they will be a useful reminder for next year

JUNE:

11th-12th ULSTER'S SIXTH STORYTELLING FESTIVAL, CULTRA, CO.DOWN.
Storytelling for adults and children, also music and drama.

8th-19th THE MUSIC FESTIVAL IN GREAT IRISH HOUSES.
Major Irish and international classical musicians and singers in some of the most splendid Irish houses, including Castletown, Strokestown, Carton and Russborough.

11th-19th AN TOSTAL, DRUMSHANBO, CO.LEITRIM.
This is the only continuous celebration of this festival in the country and features feiseanna, traditional bands, set dancing workshops and art competitions for children.

17th-19th FLEADH AMHRAN AGUS RINCE, BALLYCASTLE, CO.ANTRIM.
Traditional music, song and dance culminating in a "Concert of Champions".

18th-29th ACHILL ARCHAEOLOGICAL SUMMER SCHOOL, DOOAGH, ACHILL, CO.MAYO.
Excavations, field trips and lectures.

25th-JULY 2nd SYNGE SUMMER SCHOOL, RATHDRUM, CO.WICKLOW.
"Irish Theatre and Cinema" is the theme this year, with readings, theatre workshops, lectures and live performances.

29th-JULY 3rd GERARD MANLEY HOPKINS INTERNATIONAL SUMMER SCHOOL, MONASTEREVIN, CO.KILDARE.
On the 150th anniversary of the poet's birth the programme includes guest speakers and performers from Sweden, Russia and the US.

30th-JULY 2nd JONATHAN SWIFT SEMINAR, ST. PATRICK'S COLLEGE, MAYNOOTH, CO.KILDARE.
"The Legacy of Swift" will be examined by, among others, John Banville, Mary McGuckian and Professor Terence Brown.

30th-JULY 3rd THE BRAM STOKER INTERNATIONAL SUMMER SCHOOL, CLONTARF, CO.DUBLIN.
The influences on Dracula, both literary and Irish, are included in this year's theme "Gothic Reflections".

JULY:

10th-17th KILTARTAN HEDGE SCHOOL, GORT, CO.GALWAY.
Of a different style, this school concentrates on the works of Yeats and Lady Gregory in their natural settings of Thoor Ballylee and Coole Park.

13th-24th GALWAY ARTS FESTIVAL.
This has the usual line-up of unusual and exotic acts from abroad and the famous Macnas group's annual parade is this year entitled "Tribes".

13th-18th GALWAY FILM FLEADH.
The fleadh runs a series of films (last year over 100) at various venues around the city and is usually attended by one or two famous "names".

14th-17th FESTIVAL FRANCAIS DE PORTARLINGTON, CO.LAOIS.
Art workshops, French and Cajun music and dance in a celebration of the Huguenot influence on the town.

INTERNATIONAL BUSKING FESTIVAL, DERRY.
The prize fund of Stg 2#3,000 attracts contestants both national and international.

17th-29th JAMES JOYCE SUMMER SCHOOL, NEWMAN HOUSE, ST STEPHEN'S GREEN, DUBLIN 2.
The usual run of lectures is interspersed with outings around Dublin, including the pubs, and a coach tour to the Boyne Valley.

21st-24th DUN LAOGHAIRE FESTIVAL.
Features arts and entertainment for adults and children, including a song contest.

22nd-24th TEMPLE BAR BLUES FESTIVAL.
Free live music in 18 pubs and locations in the area with a free open-air concert in College Green.

23rd-24th ULSTER FLEADH CHEOIL, ARMAGH.
Competition for traditional musicians with the usual sessions inside and outside bars.

25th-30th JOHN HEWITT INTERNATIONAL SUMMER SCHOOL, CARNLOUGH, CO.ANTRIM.
This year's school focuses on the literature, culture and politics of the city in general, and the Northern Irish city in particular. Music and excursions will also be included.

25th-AUG 6th BOYLE ARTS FESTIVAL, CO.ROSCOMMON.
This major arts festival includes poetry readings, classical music and operatic recitals, traditional music and a literary exhibition.

29th-31st ATHY BLUEGRASS FESTIVAL, ATHY, CO.KILDARE.
Bluegrass bands from Ireland, Europe and the US.

29th-AUG 1st BALLYSHANNON INTERNATIONAL FOLK FESTIVAL, CO.DONEGAL.
Top traditional and folk banks take over the town for the weekend.

29th-AUG 7th O'CAROLAN TRADITIONAL IRISH HARP MUSIC FESTIVAL, KEADUE, CO.ROSCOMMON.
Harp recitals and competitions with peripheral dancing activities.

30th-31st FEILE '94, SEMPLE STADIUM, THURLES, CO.TIPPERARY.
Probably the last, (though I seem to remember the same being said last year), this year's line-up includes The Cranberries, Elvis Costelloe and the Attractions, Crash Test Dummies, Primal Scream and The Stunning.

AUGUST:

2nd-11th KERRY INTERNATIONAL SUMMER SCHOOL OF LIVING IRISH AUTHORS, TRALEE.
As the title suggests, this school concentrates on those writers who are still with us, and further enlivens the proceedings with excursions.

5th-7th LETTERKENNY INTERNATIONAL FOLK FESTIVAL, CO.DONEGAL.
Macnas will also be featured in this festival, which includes singers and dancers from Ireland, the UK and Europe.

TRADITIONAL MUSIC WEEKEND FESTIVAL, FEAKLE, CO.CLARE.
The town is completely taken over each year by the musicians who include, this year, Liam O'Flynn, Noel Hill and singer Sean Tyrell.

6th-20th YEATS INTERNATIONAL SUMMER SCHOOL, SLIGO.
This year is its 35th and the topics to be covered include "Yeats, Eliot and the Mythical Method", "The (Other) View from the Tower: George Yeats" and "Yeats and Beckett".

8th-14th WILLIAM CARLETON SUMMER SCHOOL, CLOGHER, CO.TYRONE.
The theme for this year, the bicentenary of Carleton's birth, is "William Carleton and the Irish Literary Tradition".

BELFAST FOLK FESTIVAL.
Over 50 events are promised, mostly held in pubs, with a line-up including artists from Australia, Russia, Bolivia and the US.

9th-14th BELFAST HARP FESTIVAL, ULSTER FOLK & TRANSPORT MUSEUM, BELFAST.
Workshops, lectures and performances focused on teaching the harp.

10th-12th PUCK FAIR, KILLORGLIN, CO.KERRY.
Apart from the ritual crowning of the goat, participants will be entertained by traditional and other musicians and a busking competition.

11th-20th COOTEHILL ARTS FESTIVAL, CO.CAVAN.
Various bands, and a street parade are among the items listed so far for this festival.

14th-19th THE PATRICK MACGILL INTERNATIONAL SUMMER SCHOOL, GLENTIES, CO.DONEGAL.
The author's daughters, both writers, will be in attendance this year, and events include several art exhibitions.

14th-21st PARNELL SUMMER SCHOOL, AVONDALE, CO.WICKLOW.
"Gender, Class and Politics" will be discussed by John Hume, Gemma Hussey, Emily O'Reilly, Bernadette McAliskey, Brian Lenihan and several more. There will also be a Percy French evening.

18th-21st THE GENERAL HUMBERT SUMMER SCHOOL, BALLINA AND KILLALA, CO.MAYO.
Political, economic and cultural topics will be discussed by speakers from the US and Europe under the title "Bridging the Atlantic".

20th-27th MERRIMAN SUMMER SCHOOL, BALLYVAUGHAN, CO.CLARE.
The examination of rural Ireland is the topic for this year, in conjunction with the usual activities, from set-dancing to Irish classes.

20th-28th KILKENNY ARTS WEEK.
A concentration on classical music is the hallmark of this event, though it also includes theatre and readings.

26th-28th FLEADH CHEOIL NA H-EIREANN, CLONMEL, CO.TIPPERARY.
The culmination of the county and regional competitions, the fleadh also includes many impromptu sessions in pubs or on the street (weather permitting).

SEPTEMBER:

2nd-4th CLIFDEN COUNTRY BLUES FESTIVAL, CLIFDEN, CO.GALWAY.
Previous visitors to this festival have included Van Morrison and Eric Clapton, the latter actually joining in one of the sessions.

9th-11th CORK FOLK FESTIVAL, CORK CITY.
Events both large and small will be augmented this year by a special Sean O'Riada commemorative concert.

14th-18th OSCAR WILDE SUMMER SCHOOL, BRAY, CO.WICKLOW.
In its inaugural year the event will include lectures, workshops, tours, theatre outings and social events.

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Craig Cockburn, pronounced 'Coburn'     E-Mail: craig@scot.demon.co.uk
Sgri\obh thugam 'sa Ga\idhlig ma 'se do thoil e.