Dictionary definitions

Sir, Darach MacDonald (June 12th) makes a spirited defence of the dictionary definition of "unionism", and rightly points out that purity of blood is a fiction in the modern world. But culture is not transmitted through the genes, and anyone observing an Orange parade should be left in no doubt of the existence of "unionist"…

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The ethnic basis of “Unionism” and “Nationalism”

Seems I'm on a roll. I wrote another letter to the Irish Times... Sir, Cian Carlin (June 10th) repeats one of the cardinal errors of Irish politics when he reduces "Unionism" to a mere political preference. The divisions in Northern Ireland span not only politics but also culture, religion, history and ancestry. "Unionist" and "Nationalist"…

In praise of secular education

I wrote a letter to the Irish Times today. Sir, Patrick Davey (May 30th) claims the right to have his children educated in a religious school. This is as unattainable a "right" as the right to live in a religious town, or to work in a religious factory. A "right" that can only be realised…

Anthem anathema

My letter in the Irish Times today. Spelling mistakes all mine, unfortunately. Sir, – John B Reid seems to be labouring under the mistaken impression that the Irish rugby team is the national team of the Republic of Ireland. If this were the case, then it would be only proper for Amhrán na bFiann to…