NORTHERN IRELAND
The Irish Canadian Society is a non-sectarian, all-Ireland group
and this Web site contains information on both parts of the island.
Northern Ireland's 'troubles' and their aftermath have caused many
potential visitors to that beautiful area to have misgivings about
the safety of travellers there. Hence, this separate section on
Northern Ireland.
The Irish Canadian Society encourages people from each part of
the island to visit the other part to broaden acquaintances and
to enjoy the many beauty spots and activities that each has to offer.
We encourage folks outside the island to visit both parts of it.
Travel in either part of the island is safe. Indeed, it is easier
to cross the border between Ireland and Northern Ireland than the
border between Canada and the United States. In fact, it is hard
to know when the Ireland/Northern Ireland border has been crossed.
This site does not address the island's politics. Political developments
throughout the island have a long and complex history with many,
but not all of them, having religious overtones. As one begins to
learn about them, it becomes increasingly clear that there is much
more to learn and that few things can be taken without appreciation
for their context. There are strong partisan views, but it is safe
to say that on both sides of the border there is an overwhelming
desire to live in peace.
Sir George Quigley, Chairman of Bombardier Aerospace (Northern
Ireland), is greatly respected for his support for reconciliation
in Northern Ireland and between Northern Ireland and Ireland. He
spoke about reconciliation on the island on October 10, 2005 at
the re-opening of the Canada Room, the principal reception and meeting
room of the Glencree Centre for Reconciliation in County Wicklow.
Looking to the brightening future in Northern Ireland, he had sound
advice for those who would contribute to progress, saying, "...
we now need a massive investment in the generation of social capital
- but not of the kind that bonds like with like. We have enough
of that, reinforcing exclusive identities and homogeneous groups.
What we need is the social capital that bridges the cleavages and
generates broader identities and sympathies. It is not easy to create
the social filaments in a society characterised by so much segregation
in housing, work, education and sport. To do so will challenge all
our creative energies."
ICS encourages you to read Sir Georges address and about
the re-opening of Glencree's Canada Room (by
clicking here) .
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