Advertisement

We need your help now

Support from readers like you keeps The Journal open.

You are visiting us because we have something you value. Independent, unbiased news that tells the truth. Advertising revenue goes some way to support our mission, but this year it has not been enough.

If you've seen value in our reporting, please contribute what you can, so we can continue to produce accurate and meaningful journalism. For everyone who needs it.

Leah Farrell/Rollingnews.ie

AS IT HAPPENED: Ireland goes to the polls in Eighth Amendment referendum

Counting starts at 9am tomorrow and we should have a clear indication of the result by lunchtime.

ALMOST 35 YEARS after the Irish people voted to insert Article 40.3.3 into our Constitution, today we were asked whether we wanted it removed.

The contentious amendment bans abortion in all circumstances except when a woman’s life is at risk.

Polls opened across the country at 7am this morning and were due to close at 10pm.

This is how events played out from early morning, until we ended our rolling coverage shortly before 7pm.

Good morning, Rónán Duffy here to take you through the morning’s voting.

If you have any stories to tell or observations to share you can send me an email on ronan@thejournal.ie or tweet me at @ronanduffy_.

You might be hoping to get your vote in before work or planning to do it later, but whatever time you’re going to do it at we’ve put a guide together about how you actually vote.

It’s basic enough stuff to be fair but you can never be too careful.

Here’s everything you need to know and if you’ve got your earphones in here’s our Nicky Ryan to explain it all anyway.

TheJournal.ie / YouTube

PastedImage-65465 TheJournal.ie TheJournal.ie

In our Q&A: Eighth Amendment Referendum series, we’ve been answering questions our readers have submitted in relation to today’s vote.

We’ve received a whole host of questions about the issue and we’ve been trying our best to provide voters with the information they need.

We’ve collated all the questions and answers in one place and it may be useful to you if you’re still on the fence about how exactly you’ll vote:

Polls have been open literally minutes, but already people have been voting.

Many have been happily tweeting about casting their ballot while others were just snapped by hungry photographers.

Here are some early voters.

Ireland abortion laws An unnamed man enters the polling station in Knock National school. PA Wire / PA Images PA Wire / PA Images / PA Images

A Yes voter in Dublin was up early.

Gerry and Gaye Edwards who lost a their son following a diagnosis fatal foetal abnormality went on to found Termination for Medical Reasons Ireland.

Following its huge impact in the marriage equality referendum, the #HomeToVote movement is again a central part of today’s ballot.

People have been sharing images of emotional scenes are Irish airports and tweets about being helped by others to make it back to Ireland.

We spoke to some of those who were making the journey back to vote in today’s referendum.

Sometimes though images are all you need.

Ireland abortion laws Shannon O'Reilly arriving home from the Netherlands to vote. Niall Carson / PA Images Niall Carson / PA Images / PA Images

Some just went to the airport to check it all out.

Much will be made about turnout today and the number of people voting today will of course influence the overall result.

It was confirmed earlier this week that about about 125,000 people registered to vote ahead of today’s referndum so we could have a bumper poll.

The National Youth Council of Ireland (NYCI) – which represents organisations working with over 380,000 young people nationwide – described the situation as an “unprecedented surge of voter registration”.

Even the chair of the Referendum Commission has a vote, and she has been encouraging everyone to use theirs.

Isobel Kennedy also came in to speak to us in TheJournal.ie to give us the most impartial of impartial information about what we’re voting on.

Here is what she told us.

TheJournal.ie / YouTube

One nifty addition that’s available for the first time in today’s vote is a new “tactile voting” system that allows people who are visually impaired casting their vote in secret.

It used to be the case that people with sight loss had to vote with the assistance of someone else but the new device means they can do it by themselves.

The tactile voting device, or tactile ballot template (examples enclosed), is placed over the ballot paper and includes Braille and embossed numbers, with a cut out square over the slot where the ballot is marked.

The device is removed from the ballot paper, which is folded and placed in the ballot box.

rt n RTE News RTE News

One thing people have been very keen to point out is that canvassing near a polling station is not allowed.

Canvassing – described as leafleting, displaying posters, or using a loudspeaker – is not allowed within 50 metres of a polling station, and is classed as an offence.

The usual advice is that a presiding officer could consider other campaigning material – be it a campaign jumper like a Repeal jumper or Love Both hoodie, or badges – to class as canvassing.

This also means that posters should not be allowed within 5o metres of polling stations.

But it seems some have spotted a few a lot closer.

A word from a couple of lead campaigners this morning

Orla O’Connor of Together for Yes

Declan Ganley of Save the 8th

Wondering exactly how we’ve got this point?

Ireland voted for what amounted to a Constitutional ban on abortion in 1983 and the public have in fact voted on the issue in a number of other referendums since.

Here’s a refresher: A history of the Eighth Amendment

And here’s one in video:

Together For Yes / YouTube

You may not pay attention to celebrity political endorsements and you’re very much well entitled to ignore them, even when U2 had their say on the referendum.

But sometimes it’s hard not to take notice, for whatever reason. Perhaps one of the oddest ones yet though is BBC football presenter Gary Lineker who has also come out for a Yes this morning.

Worth the flight alone tbh…

paper RefCom.ie RefCom.ie

When voting today, don’t be confused by what you see written on the ballot paper.

Although the referendum focuses on the amendment that was introduced back in 1983, it is actually a vote on the 36th Amendment to the Constitution.

That has been lost in the noise of the debate, as so much focus is placed on the Eighth.

The ballot paper you receive tomorrow will only mention the 36th.

Here’s our guide to the ballot paper

TheJournal.ie / YouTube

Who has the referendum day bingo car?

Turnout? Check

Steady stream? Check

We’ve seen some pretty amazing home to vote stories, but here’s one from someone who won’t make it home.

Ireland’s Olympic silver medallist Annalise Murphy is currently competing in the Volvo Ocean race and she’s sent her wishes from the middle of the Atlantic Ocean.

PastedImage-71304 Twitter / Annalise_Murphy Twitter / Annalise_Murphy / Annalise_Murphy

As you may have heard, there were some votes cast yesterday.

A total of 19 islands off the west coast had voters yesterday. The island with the fewest number of voters was Donegal’s Inishfree where just four people were eligible to vote.

On Inis Mór there were the was the rather demonic number of 666 people who were registered to vote.

Here’s a full list of all yesterday’s voting islanders.

Ireland abortion laws Garda Alan Gallagher and Presiding Officer Carmel McBride carry a polling box of the coast of Inishbofin. PA Images PA Images Garda Alan Gallagher and Presiding Officer Carmel McBride carry a polling box of the coast of Inishbofin.Source: PA Images

Predicting overall turnout at early points in the day is very difficult.

Many people choose to vote after work so putting a number on things early isn’t very useful. What you can do though is judge based on those who have voted early are there many people doing the same.

Polls have only been opened but 3.5 hours but there are any indications that a lot of people have chosen to vote early.

Five years ago from yesterday, TDs from a number of parties met with Terminations for Medical Reasons (TFMR) in Leinster House to speak about the experiences of women who had had a diagnosis of fatal foetal abnormality.

One of those who spoke after the meeting was Simon Harris, then a TD who’d been elected for the first time two years previous.

At the time Harris said that for him, the issue at hand was not one about abortion, pro-choice or pro-life it but a “specific issue that needs to be dealt with”. He told the women that the retelling of their experiences had a “profound impact”.

Today Simon Harris is Health Minister and has been campaigning for a Yes vote.

One thing you may have missed yesterday, but should absolutely check out and look out for today is theory by Twitter user @Pidge.

It’s in this thread and suggests that Ireland’s ‘voting nuns’ election trope may actually just be one media hungry nun who loves getting her photo taken.

The evidence is compelling, click into the thread.

Back to the aul celebrity endorsements for a second. The most followed Irish person on Twitter is Niall Horan, formerly of One Direction.

The Westmeath native has over 40 million followers on the platform and has today urged people to “make another great decision”.

In case you thought that you were too busy to vote today, Páraic Ó Suilleabháin tweeted about his partner marching into the polling station despite literally being in labour.

Deserved applause if every there was.

A Ryanair plane carrying dozens of Irish voters home for the referendum was struck by another passenger jet on the runway at Stansted this morning.

Ryanair has said that its plane was stationary at the time when it was clipped by a Primera Air aircraft.

The airline has said that they are transferring passengers to another plane and that they will be arrive later today.

Taoiseach Leo Varadkar cast his vote in Castleknock in the past hour.

Fianna Fáil leader Micheál Martin also voted in Cork South Central.

Oh, oh, hold on.

We have our first ‘nuns voting’ shot of the day. Unfortunately, it’s from behind so the below mentioned theory is yet to be tested.

3680 Polling Station_90545837 Nuns arriving at the polling station in Ballsbridge College in Dublin. Leah Farrell / RollingNews.ie Leah Farrell / RollingNews.ie / RollingNews.ie

Campaigners are still trying to convince voters this afternoon with over nine hours left before polls close at 10pm.

Together for Yes have some peddle cars driving around Dublin.

IMG_20180524_120602712_HDR Together for Yes Together for Yes

The Life Institute is also out campaigning for a No in the capital.

There has been a lot of chat around today after people spotted Bibles in their polling stations.

Garreth McNamee has the reason here:

The Bibles are there for people to swear confirmation of identity, if they show up to vote without ID or a polling card.

It’s provided for under Section 111 of the Electoral Act 1992, which states:

The returning officer or presiding officer may, and if so required by a personation agent present in the polling station shall, administer to any person when he applies for a ballot paper, but not afterwards, an oath or (in the case of any person who objects to taking an oath on the ground that he has no religious belief or that the taking of an oath is contrary to his religious belief) an affirmation in the following form:

“I swear by Almighty God (or — do solemnly, sincerely and truly declare and affirm — as the case may be) that I am the same person as the person whose name appears as AB on the register of Dáil electors now in force for the constitutency of……….and that I have not already voted at this election, and that I had attained the age of eighteen years on……….(date of coming into force of the register)”;

And if such person refuses to take the oath or make the affirmation he shall not be permitted to vote.

The Bibles, however, do not have to be in a prominent location in the stations. They can be hidden from view.

Fine Gael TD Noel Rock tweeted earlier about the bibles in his local polling station being moved from sight.

“…They’ve put them in a less prominent place and Officer has been informed not to give misleading explanations as to why they’re there,” he tweeted.

RTÉ is describing this morning’s turnout as “brisk” with many stations reporting up to 30% turnout already.

f45e3668c4c4555daba28853790a777a https: / /www.pinterest.ie/source/zeurel.deviantart.com/ https: / /www.pinterest.ie/source/zeurel.deviantart.com/ / /www.pinterest.ie/source/zeurel.deviantart.com/

And now for some light relief.

(If you can’t see any puppies, click here.)
https://www.facebook.com/thejournal.ie/videos/1897665786920503/

More on turnout from RTÉ reporters around the country.

In the northwest, there has been a slow start in Leitrim but Sligo‘s polling station officers are describing turnout as “unusually brisk”.

In Donegal, where turnout is about 18% as of lunch, there has been a noticeable number of young people voting.

The Mayo towns of Castlebar and Westport saw turnouts of 15-16% by lunch, with Foxford a little lower at 12%.

Similar to Sligo, Roscommon has been “very busy” with Roscommon town seeing turnout of 23% already.

In Galway – both east and west – officers have said turnout has been “well in excess” compared with those in the last General Election and Marriage Referendum at the same time of day.

Across the country, the most noticeable turnout so far has been a 30% turnout in Bray already.

Some more on turnout from RTÉ’s Paschal Sheehy in Munster…

Again, higher turnouts than normal across the board with 20% in Cork City turned out by lunch and 16-17% in other areas of the county.

Kerry towns of Killarney and Tralee have seen 17-18% of the electorate vote so far, while in more rural areas, it’s at 14-15%. 

Limerick has seen turnout of between 15-28% at polling stations.

About 16% of people on the register in Tipperary have voted, while up to 27% in Waterford have done the same.

A press release from Save the 8th campaign has detailed what its volunteers are up to for the day.

3720 Cora Sherlock_90545825 Cora Sherlock of the Loveboth group at he polling station in Ballsbridge, Dublin. Leah Farrell / RollingNews.ie Leah Farrell / RollingNews.ie / RollingNews.ie

More than 4,000 of them are “engaged in one of the largest get out the vote operations in Irish history”, the campaign said.

Here’s what has been done so far, according to the statement:

  • Almost 250,000 committed ‘no’ voters have been identified over the course of the canvass. Each one of their doors have been knocked again this week to ensure that they get out and vote.
  • A social media campaign to motivate no voters and undecideds is in full swing.
  • Volunteers nationwide are engaged in ferrying voters to and from the polls.
  • Volunteers are out putting up banners on motorway overpasses, talking to people in the streets, and encouraging the vote to come out.
  • Many volunteers are acting as poll monitors, reporting back on turnout, and will record the total number of votes cast in each polling station when polls close tonight.

Campaign chair Niamh UiBhriain said her group is “encouraged by the high turnout so far this morning”.

There’s been a call made to open Dublin Castle tomorrow for the results of today’s referendum, as it happened in 2015 following the same-sex marriage vote.

90381631_90381631 The Dublin Castle Courtyard on 23 May 2015 Sam boal / Photocall Ireland Sam boal / Photocall Ireland / Photocall Ireland

Labour representative for Dublin South Central Rebecca Moynihan says she has written to Kevin ‘Boxer’ Moran, whos is the junior minister with responsibility in the area, to “allow all those who have given so much to this campaign to congregate”.

“Access should be open to the Upper Yard of Dublin Castle, and the results of the referendum as they come in should be shown on a large screen, as it was three years ago for the marriage equality results day,” she continued.

This has been a long campaign, thirty-five years in the making. It has ignited a new sense of activism among young people in our country. I think it is appropriate for Dublin Castle to be open to as many that want to attend, rather than just the select few who were randomly allocated tickets and accredited media.

Our reporter Michelle Hennessy is chasing the story – and we’ll report back.

The Save the 8th campaign has sent this email to its supporters in the last few minutes.

PastedImage-6173

I’m not a gambling woman but some words from TheJournal.ie reporter Garreth McNamee on what the bookies are predicting:

“The betting on the referendum has changed dramatically in the last hour.

“Bookmakers were yesterday offering odds of 1/7 for the Eighth Amendment to be repealed with the odds of it being retained at 4/1. In the last hour, the odds for repeal have shortened to 1/8 (meaning repeal is more likely) while retention drifted to 9/2.

“In the past five minutes, odds for repeal have shortened once again to 1/10 – meaning if you put €100 on the 8th to be repealed you would get just €110 back.

“Retention now stands at 11/2.”

WE HAVE A NUN THEORY UPDATE. (See earlier.)

3664 Polling Station_90545864 Polling Station in Ballsbridge college Dublin Leah Farrell / RollingNews.ie Leah Farrell / RollingNews.ie / RollingNews.ie

Sinn Féin party leader Mary Lou McDonald ahead of casting her vote in Dublin today.

MARY LOU MC DUNALD VOTES II2A2943_90545885 The Polling Station on the Navan Road Cabra Dublin Eamonn Farrell Eamonn Farrell

As most people know by now, posters are not allowed within a 50m radius of polling stations.

However, those rules have been ignored by some campaigners with posters causing difficulties for officials in some areas.

PastedImage-66406 Dave Murphy Dave Murphy

Gráinne Ní Aodha reports:

After a bit of initial confusion, it was clarified that voters who see posters located within 50 metres of the polling station should report it to the returning officer, who can then contact An Garda Síochána to remove the posters.

Gardaí told TheJournal.ie: “Anyone with a complaint should contact the returning officer at the polling station who will contact Gardaí if necessary”.

We showed you the statement sent by Save the Eighth encouraging people to get their neighbours and friends out to vote, and Together4Yes has now sent theirs.

Campaign co-director Orla O’Connor said:

Early indications are that turnout across the country is quite strong, however we know there are certain pockets where turnout is a bit slower, so we would encourage voters in these areas to talk to their friends, family members and work colleagues, and make sure they vote before the deadline of 10pm.

Time for some more light relief?

Sure, go on.

Our video reporter Andrew Roberts took a trip to the Phoenix Park to learn about fawning season.

TheJournal.ie / YouTube

1983 ABORTION ISSUES REFERENDUMS Bertie Ahern TD walks by a pro-life protester outside Leinster House. Eamonn Farrell / RollingNews.ie Eamonn Farrell / RollingNews.ie / RollingNews.ie

Ireland has held a number of referendums related to abortion over the past four decades.

In 1983, the Fine Gael-led government (following a fractious political time) called a referendum to insert the Eighth Amendment into the Constitution.

It was passed.

Turnout was 53.7%, with a majority of 66.9% in favour of the amendment and 32.1% against. It was signed into law just one month later.

File Photo: The Eight Amendment is back on the political agenda, due to the case of a young woman who is brain dead and being kept alive on a life suport machine to keep her 17 week old foetus viable. A confrontation between pro-life and pro-choice supporters on O'Connell Bridge in Dublin on 25 April 1992. Eamonn Farrell / RollingNews.ie Eamonn Farrell / RollingNews.ie / RollingNews.ie

In 1992 – after the X Case - the government proposed three amendments to the Constitution.

Two of the three passed. They inserted into the Constitution the right for a woman to travel for an abortion and the right for a woman to receive information about abortion. They remain as the 13th and 14th amendments in Bunreacht na hEireann.

The Twelfth Amendment was rejected by the people (65% to 34%). That could have seen suicide as a ground for a lawful termination taken away.

Turnout was 68.2%.

PastedImage-83729 Top: Maria Davin (now Steen) during a pro-life press conference on 1 March 2002. Bottom: Mary Lou McDonald was Sinn Féin's spokesperson on the abortion referendum RollingNews.ie RollingNews.ie

In 2002, the issue of suicide was put to the public again. Once more, it was rejected (but only narrowly at 49.58% to 50.42%).

Turnout was much smaller at 42.8%.

Hello! Aoife Barry here, looking after the liveblog after Sinéad.

Turnout is unusually high in some areas already today – earlier, we showed you Kevin Humphrey’s tweet  which noted a 47% turnout in Belmont Avenue in Donnybrook.

Richard Chambers of Newstalk said just a few hours ago that turnout was into the thirties in other locations in Dublin. Polls stay open till 10 tonight – and we still have the post-work rush to go.

newschambres Twitter Twitter

You’re probably wondering what the turnout for the marriage equality referendum was like back in 2015. Well, there were two referendums that day, one on presidential age, and one on marriage equality.

There was 60.52% turnout, with 1,949,725 votes cast and 1,201,607 in favour of same-sex marriage.

The proposal to reduce the presidential candidacy age was rejected however, with 73.06% of voters voting against it.

There was a 53.7% turnout for the 1983 referendum on the Eighth Amendment, and a 42.8% turnout for 2002′s abortion referendum. So it will be interesting to see if we exceed 60% turnout for today’s voting.

Have you cast your vote yet? Some of our team will be heading out after work to cast theirs.

Only six hours to go, as the Referendum Commission is reminding us:

PastedImage-54092 Twitter Twitter

In non-referendum news (yep, there’s some out there) – it’s GDPR day today.

And though we all knew about the influx of emails asking us to opt-in to mailing lists, here’s something we didn’t expect: some US news websites have been blocked because of the law.

latimes-5

Read more about why here.

More updated turnouts coming in – RTÉ says that turnout in Kilkenny is:

  • Ballyhale: 30%
  • Knocktopher: 24%
  • Hugginstown: 31%

RTÉ’s Damien Tiernan says there are at least 30% turnouts in most rural parts of Kilkenny, with 35% on average in more urban areas. He says there’s a “big rush expected” later on this evening.

On the subject of voter turnout – here’s a list of turnout and results in all referendums from 1937 – 2011, thanks to the Houses of the Oireachtas’s Twitter account:

voter turnout Oireachtas News Oireachtas News

VOTING 883_90545856 Sam Boal Sam Boal

You’ve cast your vote today. And counting starts tomorrow morning.

So what happens to the votes in between?

The national returning officer Barry Ryan has been giving an insight into what’s involved in the count tomorrow, and told RTÉ  Drivetime that the ballot boxes are stored overnight in local count centres.  The local returning officers are in charge of securing the boxes overnight, at the 26 count centres across the country.

The opening of the ballot boxes begins at 9am tomorrow, and once the contents of each ballot box has been verified, the counting begins.

There are 40 constituencies – just like the Dáil election constituencies – and the results from all of these are sent the central count centre.

But what time can we expect the result to be announced? “It’s always difficult to be absolutely precise on timing,” said Barry. He did point out that the result of the marriage referendum was announced just before 7pm in 2015, but there have been others made earlier in the day (and there were two referendums that day).

“We really have to wait and see,” he said. So for now, it’s still a waiting game. He also noted that if the turnout is high, that can affect the time it takes to count the votes.

Earlier we told you Labour councillor Rebecca Moynihan was calling for a large screen to be installed in the Upper Yard of Dublin Castle so campaigners can gather for the results, similar to the set-up for the same-sex marriage referendum in 2015.

We’ve been told the yard will be open to the public, but there will only be small podiums for media use. There are no plans at the moment to install a large screen or a stage.

That said, in 2013 it was a somewhat last-minute decision to put those arrangements in place, so it is possible this could change tomorrow

90381681_90381681 Here's what Dublin Castle looked like in 2015. Rolling News Rolling News

RTÉ will be announcing its exit poll results at 11.30pm tonight – but there’s another exit poll in town.

The Irish Times has just announced it’ll be doing its own exit poll, though it doesn’t say what time it will be published at.

The exit poll is being conducted by Ipsos/MRBI among 4,000 respondents at 160 polling stations in every constituency. Interviewing began at 7am on Friday as the first voters went to the polls, and continued throughout the day. Interviewing will also continue throughout the evening as voters cast their ballots.

It says today’s poll is expected to have a margin of +/-1.5%.

Minister of State for the Diaspora and International Development Ciaran Cannon has cast his vote – unlike his Fine Gael party leader, he voted No.

Here, the Galway East TD and junior minister explained why:

ciaran cannon Twitter Twitter

Here’s what Dublin Castle looks like right now – those tents are due to be used by the media. No sign of a big screen at this point:

rachel killeen Twitter Twitter

Need a bit of a break from all things referendum?

We’ve got your back.

Take a cruise on Dublin’s Grand Canal with us…

(Can’t see the Facebook video? Click here to go to Facebook or here to go to Twitter)
https://www.facebook.com/thejournal.ie/videos/1897923533561395/

It’s 6pm, but you might still have some questions if you haven’t voted yet.

Here’s our piece from earlier today  about everything you need to know about the voting process – and results day.

That’s all from me, Aoife – I’ll leave you now in the capable hands of Seán Murray.

Cheers Aoife!

RTÉ’s Six One is on, and high turnout being reported in a number of areas.

Activists on both sides still urging people who haven’t been to vote yet to get out and make sure they do – you have till 10pm tonight to cast your vote.

RTÉ’s Six One News is on, and its reporters from various areas are talking about turnout.

Paschal Sheehy, down in Cork, says turnout has been steady and it might eclipse that of the marriage equality referendum in 2015.

He’s also wearing a very snazzy suit.

Here he is on an earlier bulletin:

paschal sheehy RTÉ / Twitter RTÉ / Twitter / Twitter

Our reporters Christina Finn and Michelle Hennessy have been looking into the plans for the Dublin Castle courtyard for tomorrow.

That was the setting for the jubilant scenes after the marriage equality referendum in 2015, of course.

As it stands, the courtyard will be open to the public tomorrow but there are no plans just yet to install a large screen or a stage.

Although that can still change.

On count day for the marriage equality referendum in 2015 it was a somewhat last-minute decision to put those arrangements in place, so it is possible this could change tomorrow.

You can read more about it here.

As well as referendum day, it’s also the gardaí’s National Slow Down day today.

The gardaí have sent in a statement detailing some of the speeding drivers it’s caught around the country today.

One of those was this one, caught travelling 170km/hr.

So, even if you’re rushing to vote this evening, the message from gardaí is to slow down and stay safe.

Still haven’t voted yet and wondering how?

My colleague Nicky Ryan has you covered.

TheJournal.ie / YouTube

The results of the vote tomorrow will come in constituency by constituency, just like it was for the original vote on the Eighth Amendment in 1983.

That vote passed by 67%, and here’s a breakdown of how that vote went area-by-area. Just five of the 41 voted against the Eighth.

It’s almost seven o’clock, and that’s where we’ll leave it for today’s liveblog.

Polls close at 10pm tonight, and TheJournal.ie will be providing updates as the exit polls come in later this evening.

And then we’ll be keeping you updated throughout tomorrow as the results start to come in around the country.

Until then…

Readers like you are keeping these stories free for everyone...
A mix of advertising and supporting contributions helps keep paywalls away from valuable information like this article. Over 5,000 readers like you have already stepped up and support us with a monthly payment or a once-off donation.

Close
266 Comments
This is YOUR comments community. Stay civil, stay constructive, stay on topic. Please familiarise yourself with our comments policy here before taking part.
Leave a Comment
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Brian Flynn
    Favourite Brian Flynn
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 1:22 PM

    So let me get this straight.

    Singing “Up the Ra” is NOT offensive to half the people in the North, who need to get over themselves and realise its just a song. Who cares that the IRA murdered hundreds of Protestants and Catholics?

    But singing a song written to protest the murder of two children IS offensive to the other half of the North?

    Singing songs glorifying terrorism = positive and inclusive.

    Singing songs decrying the murder of children = offensive and bigoted.

    Bring on the United Ireland referendum I say.

    We’re clearly ready for it.

    469
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Kilkenny Proud
    Favourite Kilkenny Proud
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 1:26 PM

    @Brian Flynn: I regret that I but have one thumb to give to this comment. You distilled it perfectly.

    155
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Gertrude Gilmore
    Favourite Gertrude Gilmore
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 5:24 PM

    @DGQ: Jaysus christ…….800 yrs

    FFS Why can’t the Irish just get over the past

    Look at Germany in WW2….millions murdered in gas chambers….All of Europe has moved on, the Irish still going on about stuff which happened a millennia ago

    We are so interbred on these islands, I say to these moaners – it could have have been YOUR ancestors who were doing the “oppressing”

    72
    See 1 more reply ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Abdul
    Favourite Abdul
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 7:33 PM

    @DGQ: the irony being that the nationalists who seek a United Ireland baulk at a song written and used to promote inclusivity for what is in effect a United Ireland rugby team? You couldn’t make it up. Take your points and your goals will come et al.

    34
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Sean O'Dhubhghaill
    Favourite Sean O'Dhubhghaill
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 1:05 PM

    I was at the Munster V SA match in Pairc Ui Chaoimh. Zombie was genuinely spine-tingling!

    278
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Sean O Toole
    Favourite Sean O Toole
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 7:50 PM

    @Sean O’Dhubhghaill: It’s a classic, that’s why. You may not even hear it for years and then the spine tingles once you hear it, again. Pure brilliance from the Cranberries.
    PS: Would love to have been there too.

    73
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Gavan Hogan
    Favourite Gavan Hogan
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 9:11 PM

    @Sean O’Dhubhghaill: But … it was a different time. Our internet king says that we should be offended !~>
    I am looking forward to Halloween where children will not be ” allowed ” to wear certain costumes.
    I’m glad that I’m on the way out of this life.

    25
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute honey badger
    Favourite honey badger
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 1:05 PM

    It wasn’t an issue for aggrieved provo aplogists when it was being belted out at Feile na Pobail in Belfast in recent times.

    They need to understand that it is a song that is against violence perpetrated by anyone involved in the Troubles. Its only an issue because of the embarrassment of defending two children being blown up by a bomb isn’t easy for even the most dedicated provo hugger.

    225
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute
    Favourite
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 1:18 PM

    @honey badger: you fully support Ukrainian and Russian violence proved by constantly shouting down anyone who suggests peace talks calling them pro Russia. Q you insulting me now for no reason.

    120
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute honey badger
    Favourite honey badger
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 1:25 PM

    @: Yes, I fully support the Ukrainian national army defending itself and repelling a murderous Russian invasion. I’m not certain I know how to shout down anyone here. Peace talks begin and end with a complete Russian withdrawal. Ukraine decides when and if they begin.

    Now that we’ve cleared your comment up, can you outline what it has to do with aggrieved provo huggers getting fractious because a song released in response to two innocent children being blown up?

    76
    See 12 more replies ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute
    Favourite
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 1:30 PM

    @honey badger: Yet you condemn Palestinians fighting murderous invaders. Imagine what the Palestinians could have done with the west training its people and west supplying with the weapon needed to fight the illegal aggressor. But no you support the aggressor Israel. Israel and Ukraine violence are A ok with you.

    61
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute honey badger
    Favourite honey badger
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 1:34 PM

    @: feel free to address my initial comment. I won’t be chasing after anymore of your desperate whataboutery. Cheers.

    49
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute
    Favourite
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 1:38 PM

    @honey badger: Ah bless you really don’t like being shown for what you really are do you.?

    54
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Jason Walsh
    Favourite Jason Walsh
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 2:42 PM

    @honey badger: not just the Troubles it’s any war

    18
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Journal Commenter
    Favourite Journal Commenter
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 4:24 PM

    @honey badger: I really struggle to grapple with how one could be pro Ukraine and then pro Israel? Could you explain it to me? Or do you just love being a massive hypocrite?

    37
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Gertrude Gilmore
    Favourite Gertrude Gilmore
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 5:30 PM

    @DGQ: “peddling miss information”

    You her pimp ???

    :D:D:D:D:D:D:D:D

    15
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Donal Desmond
    Favourite Donal Desmond
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 5:31 PM

    @honey badger: The unfortunate deaths of the children that inspired Delores to write that song was tragic., but I wonder why she didn’t write a song that spoke of the Irish children murdered by British security forces. Two wrongs do not make a right..The deaths of all children in the conflict must be condemned, but some people are very selective when it comes to these unfortunate deaths…Pure hypocrisy by those who sang the song at the rugby match.

    28
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Donal Desmond
    Favourite Donal Desmond
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 5:57 PM

    @honey badger: What about the innocent Irish children murdered by British security forces. The deaths of all children in the conflict should be condemned, Wonder did Delores like a lot of people only see one side.

    26
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Gertrude Gilmore
    Favourite Gertrude Gilmore
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 5:57 PM

    @Donal Desmond: Whataboutery is not an acceptable reply.

    42
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Donal Desmond
    Favourite Donal Desmond
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 7:31 PM

    @Gertrude Gilmore: Whataboitery? Or Hypocrisy on your part..

    15
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute hans vos
    Favourite hans vos
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 8:47 PM

    Israel confiscated the gaza strip. And gave it back. The even where building a airport for the Palestinians. Did you see what Hamas did with it.?

    11
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Jack Moss
    Favourite Jack Moss
    Report
    Sep 27th 2023, 5:08 AM

    @Donal Desmond: murder is a strong word . A Barton gun is not design to kill people . That’s why it fires pieces of rubber . No soldier or police officer fires a Barton gun with the intent to kill . The IRA planting bombs where design to kill .

    7
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute John O'Leary
    Favourite John O'Leary
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 1:18 PM

    I was at the Parc Ui Choiomh match -v- SA. It was amazing….and the videos coming back from France are another level up again. The song has this ominous/drone type of sound at the start that draws out the excitement from the crowd. Fair play Dolores.

    177
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Gertrude Gilmore
    Favourite Gertrude Gilmore
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 1:20 PM

    It’s only a song

    Let them sing !

    164
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute
    Favourite
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 1:55 PM

    People are too easily offended these days.

    169
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute John Nolan
    Favourite John Nolan
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 1:24 PM

    Good to have another great Irish song to sing at games

    146
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Rochelle Hart
    Favourite Rochelle Hart
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 2:07 PM

    Crowds have been singing it for years at different sporting events in Limerick and Cork without controversy but as soon as it reaches Dublin ears its apparently time for concern and a national conversation about it!

    126
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute ciaran o dowd
    Favourite ciaran o dowd
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 2:27 PM

    @Rochelle Hart: I’m a Dub and I love it, cracking song and amazing hearing it pumped out in Paris.

    119
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute DBdTl1WB
    Favourite DBdTl1WB
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 9:36 PM

    @Rochelle Hart: well , Limerick , a fine city , use to be a bit of a war zone

    12
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Geraldine O'Riordan
    Favourite Geraldine O'Riordan
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 1:15 PM

    Bring back “The Fields of Athenry”

    76
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Corey Dalton
    Favourite Corey Dalton
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 2:14 PM

    @Geraldine O’Riordan: Funny thing is, depending on who is singing it, you can hear interjections of “Sinn Féin” and “IRA” quite often.

    33
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Art Vandelay
    Favourite Art Vandelay
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 3:47 PM

    @Geraldine O’Riordan: Get yer own fuppin song!

    7
    See 1 more reply ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute brian o'leary
    Favourite brian o'leary
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 8:56 PM

    @Geraldine O’Riordan: it hasn’t gone away you know.

    9
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Gertrude Gilmore
    Favourite Gertrude Gilmore
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 2:14 PM

    So sad that so many people are still living in 1916 and that is what Zombie highlights.

    They need to get it into their heads that the Ireland of 1916 doesn’t exist anymore and never will again, Ireland is becoming more and more diverse which is something to be welcomed and embraced.

    All these dinosaurs who harp on about Connolly and whoever else yada yada need to give themselves a shake and wise up, its 2023 for gawds sake.

    87
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Journal Commenter
    Favourite Journal Commenter
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 4:27 PM

    @Gertrude Gilmore: you are aware the 1916 referenced in the song isn’t about the Easter Rising at all or the struggle for independence in Ireland? It actually refers to the Battle of the Somme in France? Not many people actually realise that.

    34
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Gertrude Gilmore
    Favourite Gertrude Gilmore
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 5:06 PM

    @Journal Commenter: Not many people probably know that because it is utter bollix ?

    “Lead singer Dolores O’Riordan claimed that “Zombie” speaks about “the Irish fight for independence that seems to last forever.” The lyrics even say, “It’s the same old theme since 1916.”"

    https://www.songfacts.com/facts/the-cranberries/zombie

    67
    See 5 more replies ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute DBdTl1WB
    Favourite DBdTl1WB
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 9:28 PM

    @Gertrude Gilmore: Ireland certainly isn’t the same since 1916 ! It got most of its independence in 1921 and this was completed for most of us in 1948. The spirit of 1916 Republicanism was dead by the late 1950 when the men of 1916-1922 were heading the grave, often young enough. Constitutionalism laid the way for most people from the mid 1920s onwards . The IRA were morbid by late 1950s . What transpired in late 1960s wasn’t the spirit of 1916 but a spirit of defence and to stop the Loyalist violence on Catholics that was tolerated seen in 1920-1921 . Dolores clearly didn’t head much history lessons , but that’s what you get from Rock stars and why most of them should STFU when it comes to politics .

    12
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute DBdTl1WB
    Favourite DBdTl1WB
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 9:34 PM

    @Gertrude Gilmore: most of those who talk about Connolly , like you , haven’t a clue what they are talking about ! Connolly , despite his socialism , was one of the few who was able to unite both communities in the north, least the working class . While it was brief , it was better than what others did ! If you were remotely educated enough , you’d have seen that Connolly was at total odds with the type of Ireland that the volunteers under Pearse stood for and certainly what came later . Noel Browne highlighted that in the 1950s . So, now that you had your historical illiterate little speech, twaddle along before you remove any doubt as to how clueless and how out of your depth you really are . Maybe understand what happened and the people of the past before uttering such tripe .

    13
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute DBdTl1WB
    Favourite DBdTl1WB
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 9:37 PM

    @Harry Hope: he was joking

    4
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Gertrude Gilmore
    Favourite Gertrude Gilmore
    Report
    Sep 27th 2023, 9:43 AM

    @Christy Dolan: ” If you were remotely educated enough ”

    Oh dear…..you are making a fatal assumption that I ACTUALLY give a flying feck about 1916, 1920, 1921 and all the other dates you pulled in your post, and all that other inane crap you posted, I couldn’t give a flying fk about Connoly et al, I have a life and I live it…in the present.

    I have travelled the world and worked for multi billion dollar internationals, and I would be pretty sure I am better qualified than you.

    Now I will make an assumption, you are sitting in a care home with a urine stained blanket over you, saliva dribbling down your cheeks as you await your next dose of meds….close ?…you sound like a rambling old coffin dodger who would bore anyone to death with your vapid posts….the way you talk about Connolly makes it sound like you knew him personally :D

    3
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Gertrude Gilmore
    Favourite Gertrude Gilmore
    Report
    Sep 27th 2023, 9:44 AM

    @Christy Dolan: And just as I make a point about rambling old fools rambling on about the past, 1916, 1920, 1921……yawn

    Along comes Christy and makes my point for me :D

    2
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute GEORGE STAGG
    Favourite GEORGE STAGG
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 1:14 PM

    Happenstance me A !!
    So the French rugby authorities just ‘happened’ to have this little ditty on their turntable in case ireland won.. not Irish Eyes Are Smiling.. not Molly Malone, not Fields of Athenry…why ??
    Is that a rat I smell or was this a Blackrock College setup ?
    Would have to wonder how the same crowd don’t seem to feel comfortable playing/ singing The National Anthem at a major international event.

    81
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute honey badger
    Favourite honey badger
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 1:20 PM

    @GEORGE STAGG: It’s interesting that on the former twitter lots of aggrieved provo huggers were mentioning partionists/ D4/ west brit as their reasonable response to Zombie playing. Now we can add that its all a conspiracy to the list.

    1.2 million of us tuned in to watch the match. Are we all, all the above? Is Blackrock college and the French rugby federation in cahoots?

    You’re doing some serious mental gymnastics there. It’s funny though.

    118
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Gertrude Gilmore
    Favourite Gertrude Gilmore
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 1:22 PM

    @GEORGE STAGG:

    Not everyone who follows Irish Rugby identifies with the Republic’s national Anthem

    As a divided country a Neutral song should be chosen and this is as good as any.

    91
    See 4 more replies ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Sean O'Dhubhghaill
    Favourite Sean O'Dhubhghaill
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 1:31 PM

    @GEORGE STAGG: The National Anthem is played at every home match in the Aviva.

    34
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute GEORGE STAGG
    Favourite GEORGE STAGG
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 2:32 PM

    @honey badger: think it’s very reasonable that the French rugby authorities did not come up with this little ditty as a brand new irish rugby anthem all on their ownio.
    So who did ???

    23
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute TheGood Feign
    Favourite TheGood Feign
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 2:38 PM

    @Ray Farrell: what age are you? Seriously, the lack of understanding about our brethren in the North is astonishing on this site.

    30
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute DBdTl1WB
    Favourite DBdTl1WB
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 9:45 PM

    @GEORGE STAGG: In fairness , the it’s Ireland’s call that they are less likely to sing in Dublin. Plenty of Blackrock past pupils on that team and previous teams . The Blackrock crowd have always sung the real anthem. A school of the republicans from the Andrews Dynasty ; De Valera ; Coogan ; Ballagh , even SF Eoin O’Broin , O’Connor ; and the man himself , Michael Cusack ….

    5
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Batster
    Favourite Batster
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 1:05 PM

    I couldn’t care less about the message, it’s an awful song though. Munster are welcome to it.

    70
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Fran Ken
    Favourite Fran Ken
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 1:42 PM

    This song is massive in SE Asia and Middle East. Its amazing the reaction it gets when it’s played in a public place. Everyone sings along to it. I doubt if any of them get the line “It’s the same old theme, since 1916” But who cares, they enjoy it.

    49
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Journal Commenter
    Favourite Journal Commenter
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 4:28 PM

    @Fran Ken: do you get that line?

    8
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Gearoid MacEachaidh
    Favourite Gearoid MacEachaidh
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 3:31 PM

    Spot on! People are reading far too much into the whole thing. It’s just a great song.

    37
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute DBdTl1WB
    Favourite DBdTl1WB
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 4:37 PM

    @Gearoid MacEachaidh: people are idiots These same idiots , the bandwagon jumpers who only came to rugby in the last 10-15 years and wouldn’t not an AIL club if it hit them in the face , were and are from GAA and soccer backgrounds – all happily have and will sing Sean South of Garryowen (nope not a rugby song ) , Nation once again, celtic Symphony with the naughty bit in etc . Even the foreigners will join in on those tunes . Irony of it is these same gob s h I tea will be singing Zombie and moments same later at the game or at a soccer game sing Fields of Athenry with the Sinn Fein – IRA addition to it Lol. Bad enough a bunch of southerners who never spent more than a day in the north writing and singing about the north as if it was on behalf of the nation . (Not the band’s fault )

    12
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Jason Walsh
    Favourite Jason Walsh
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 2:41 PM

    From what I was aware Zombie is about suffering from PTSD due to being involved in a war. It’s not directed specifically at any war or the Troubles. Folk are just blowing up over nothing, being too woke.

    41
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Journal Commenter
    Favourite Journal Commenter
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 4:38 PM

    @Jason Walsh: that’s my understanding as well. I believe Dolores previously confirmed as well the 1916 line was to do with the battle of the somme (contrary to popular belief) and the song is meant to be anti war and violence regardless the “side” your on and deals with the PTSD of people following such events.

    26
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Journal Commenter
    Favourite Journal Commenter
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 5:04 PM

    @Jimmy Wallace: i know that’s what inspired the song and what it is dedicated towards but I’m just pointing out that “it’s the same old theme since 1916” is actually not a reference to the Easter rising (and there was still a raging ongoing battle for independence before 1916, that just was the catalyst for the movement). But it’s actually a reference to the battle of the Somme which was believed to be the battle with the single most fatalities and the bloodiest battle ever fought. All conflicts have been the same old theme since, death and blood. Given the inspiration of the song these lyrics were immediately inferred to be related to the rising. I believe it was confirmed this was not the case.

    7
    See 2 more replies ▾
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Gertrude Gilmore
    Favourite Gertrude Gilmore
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 5:07 PM

    @Journal Commenter: “the Cranberries claim they wrote “Zombie” to be a “song for peace, peace among England and Ireland.”

    Bit early to be on grandpa’s cough medicine eh ?

    12
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute CTW
    Favourite CTW
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 6:46 PM

    @Journal Commenter: It’s a direct reference to Ireland in 1916 and Delores is the record on that. The IRA killed two children not one that day. A three year old and a twelve year old if my memory is correct. A rubbish bin bomb. Her disgust at those murders inspired the song.

    28
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Niamh
    Favourite Niamh
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 1:22 PM

    When UFC fighter Korean Zombie Jung Chan-sung retired everyone in the stadium sang that song. He loss to Max Holloway at UFC Singapore on August 26, 2023.

    37
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute TheGood Feign
    Favourite TheGood Feign
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 2:39 PM

    @Niamh: it’s a huge hit in Singapore, I remember being surprised to hear it on the taxi from the airport just after I’d arrived.

    24
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Edward McAndrew
    Favourite Edward McAndrew
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 3:09 PM

    England should play ‘give Ireland back to the Irish’ by John and Yoko.

    34
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Derek Poutch
    Favourite Derek Poutch
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 3:36 PM

    @Edward McAndrew: It was Paul who sang that song, Lennon done Sunday Bloody Sunday and the luck of the Irish

    24
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute lesidees
    Favourite lesidees
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 6:59 PM

    Who knew that Shinners were such sensitive souls?

    29
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute lWOk0fWf
    Favourite lWOk0fWf
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 4:32 PM

    Why should anyone care if anyone is offended?
    Let them be offended.

    25
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Donna Fallon
    Favourite Donna Fallon
    Report
    Sep 27th 2023, 4:05 AM

    @lWOk0fWf: Absolutely… these constantly offended people are to be pitied. They obviously have little else to be worried about FFS.

    9
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Gertrude Gilmore
    Favourite Gertrude Gilmore
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 5:09 PM

    It would be encouraging if the GAA could follow the example set by Irish Rugby

    I never understood the need for anthems, fleegs etc at sporting events, keep politics/religion whatever out of sports

    The GAA should fly both flags of this Island or none and likewise play both Anthems or none, my preference is none.

    17
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute DBdTl1WB
    Favourite DBdTl1WB
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 9:55 PM

    @Gertrude Gilmore: there’s only 1 Ireland on this island . Only need for one “fleg” ad far as the GAA are concerned . Why should GAA people ignore their history and roots in Irish Nationalism ? What you suggested won’t make Unionists , a tiny group on this island , change their attitudes ! . The GAA always have the provincial “flags”. Even the Irish Rugby team did not use the Unionist version of the Ulster “fleg” when they lined out in Paris . They used the historical 9 county Ulster Flag (Burke/ De Burgh Coat of Arms with the O’Neill red hand) has wouldn’t go a miss at a GAA game. Anthems are for tv for show. Rugby games never had anthems and pageantry in the 1980s . Most club GAA games don’t have the anthem only at the final and provincial championship. Nothing wrong with county flags

    15
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Jack Burton
    Favourite Jack Burton
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 6:03 PM

    I don’t get Zombie as stadium anthem.

    16
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute lesidees
    Favourite lesidees
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 6:59 PM

    @Jack Burton: if you had been in Stade de France on Saturday you would

    27
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Jack Burton
    Favourite Jack Burton
    Report
    Sep 27th 2023, 6:55 AM

    @lesidees: No I wouldn’t

    3
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute DBdTl1WB
    Favourite DBdTl1WB
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 4:27 PM

    To be fair , Limerick , formerly known as Stab City , use to be a bit of a war zone. The song is a powerful one , and well performed but it’s dated . That group have vastly better songs that are far more appropriate to a sporting occasion. The level of intelligence and originality to chose that song is laughable . Zombie ? The Ra ? Ffs . What’s that got to do with a mostly southern sport team , a sport that has played absolutely nothing of a negative role during the troubles . Far from it , a few RUC and Ultra Unionists and moderate Unionists played for the IRFU team . We don’t need reminding about that period everywhere we go in the world .

    16
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute James Dalton
    Favourite James Dalton
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 9:12 PM

    I understand the argument against the song is about making light of the motivations behind the troubles. And saying it is just “in your head” is part of this.
    To me.. regardless of motivation.. there is no motivation strong enough to justify the killing of two children. That is what the song is about.. “if the violence causes such silence we must be mistaken”.

    Anyone who argues against the message of the song is saying that the motivations at the time were justifiable enough to result in the bombing of children. Most would not agree.

    11
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute DBdTl1WB
    Favourite DBdTl1WB
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 10:03 PM

    @James Dalton: so , you want the rest of the world to only know about Ireland from the Troubles , no matter where you go, and bear in mind , most of ye weren’t even born or old enough when that song came out in 1994/95 or GFA 1998. The song is dated a thing of the past , and arguably the same can be sad for The fields of Athenry , that will and has gotten hijacked by the barstool Republicans , maybe later that same night ? . Many are quick to say, rightly , to move on when Shinners start whinging ; surely songs like this , however powerful back then, can move on. Sweet FA were listening to this tune 10-15 years ago. Cranberries were unfairly “uncool” for most of the 2000s (still did good tunes eg “Salvation”) Its almost like it’s a reaction to the recent Wolfe Tones hype a few weeks ago .

    6
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute James Dalton
    Favourite James Dalton
    Report
    Sep 27th 2023, 2:34 PM

    @Christy Dolan: Where did I say I wanted Ireland to be only known for the troubles?

    I don’t think anyone who hears this song not from Ireland has a clue what it’s about.

    It’s a peace song for the love of lord. Just stop whining. It was a quality moment in Paris, one I’ll remember for many years, and hopefully have a few more of them nights before the RWC is over. Chill out lad and enjoy the rugby.. or turn on something else.

    2
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Aidan Madden
    Favourite Aidan Madden
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 5:31 PM

    Shelbourne FC are very partial to Zombie and have adapted it in a variety of ways to amuse themselves and annoy others in recent years.

    9
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Robert Halvey
    Favourite Robert Halvey
    Report
    Sep 26th 2023, 9:21 PM

    Ah go on go one its about understand a moment in time

    2
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute
    Favourite
    Report
    Sep 27th 2023, 5:53 AM

    Dolores would have lmfao at all this.
    She’d also bawk if she knew her song was to be used by the goys with the heino, loiiiiike

    3
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute DBdTl1WB
    Favourite DBdTl1WB
    Report
    Sep 27th 2023, 8:58 AM

    @: sure she was another mental case like Sinead O’Connor . You couldn’t predict that she’d be like

    1
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Chris
    Favourite Chris
    Report
    Sep 27th 2023, 1:08 PM

    Welcome to wokeness , where everything has a subliminal meaning ,and everything is aimed at causing offence

    How did we live our life’s before ???

    2
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Oliveraie de Paravieille
    Favourite Oliveraie de Paravieille
    Report
    Oct 2nd 2023, 1:16 PM

    Was played in Bordeaux to v Romania, great experience. Am a wee tiny bit weary of the “Fields” now, it doesn’t match the energy of this youthful squad or the dynamism of this RWC campaign.

    1
    Install the app to use these features.
    Mute Jim O'Sullivan
    Favourite Jim O'Sullivan
    Report
    Oct 2nd 2023, 8:29 AM

    What’s the gripe—Rugby is full of dodgy songs

    1
Submit a report
Please help us understand how this comment violates our community guidelines.
Thank you for the feedback
Your feedback has been sent to our team for review.

Leave a commentcancel

 
JournalTv
News in 60 seconds