"Viewing Real History and Hysterical Reality - Same Difference (Sic)?"

A review of Irish Consulate General by Paul Itical written on Friday 24th of October 2008

First of all I am a Scottish born Canadian with, French, Finnish, Slovakian, English and Irish roots, qualified in Art, classical civilisation, English lit. politics I feel I may actually be in a position to add a balanced and objective riposte.

I do not claim to have any inside knowledge as to what Ms Manahans 'agenda might be', however I would assume it is more historically informed than a few rather obvious unsupported assertions.

I visted friends in Eire during the 70's and I served in HM Forces during the worst of the 'troubles' so again I formed my opinion based on experience.

The impact of the Great (Irish) Famine were not simply a short term inconvience, they utterly shattered the Irish economy, the structure and fabric of Irish society, culture and life. It took until the last throws of the 20th century for the Irish 'homeland' population to begin to rise again, over 150 years later. Direct rule via the Act of Union meant that Ireland was run as a 'for profits business' by Westminster-based political appointees and by the wealthy landed gentry (many sitting in the House of Lords).

Time, unfortunately, does not heal all wounds, however truth and reconciliation can be a starting point - as many persecuted people will attest to - e.g. the treatment of the Jewish people by the Nazi's, the black people sold into slavery in the US, the treatment of Chinese by the Japanese, the persecution of First-Nation peoples within North America, or even the aboriginal people of Australia, and what about apartheid in South Africa? It is hard to tell these people that 'it was a long time ago - get over it'.

I would point out that 'For god's sake woman' sounds biased/prejudiced/belittling, as the Consul General's gender has no bearing on history, nor would any deficiency in travel experience/social life matter either.

Derisive/ridicule has been utilised as 'weapons' to great effect within opposing social groups/nations - esp. against Irish, Jewish, Romany, black, Asian, Scottish peoples and, of course, women ...

For the record, no one other 'yourself' can 'make 'you' believe something which isn't true - because the truth (like the famine itself) is whatever we choose to believe - and refuse to enter into a constructive dialogue about. If you don't believe me - just ask Mr Mugabe PM.

The famine will remain a contentious issue and an emotive 'boil' which could easily fester as sectarianism for another 150 'silent' years ...

Excuse any bad spelling and lack of grammer, but time flies ... .

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