When discussing identity on the island of Ireland I believe it is dangerous and inappropriate to attempt to integrate existing diversity. One should not try to blend together traditions that are essentially different. We may disagree as to the extent of those differences, but there is little to be gained by trying to meld things together. Instead, our objective should be to find a bway in which diverse traditions can be affirmed and enjoyed. We should not be afraid of difference. There are many countries and societies which have within them tremendous diversities in cultural terms, without those differences necessarily resulting in conflict.
Being Irish, edited by Paddy Logue, is published by Oak Tree Press (14.95 pb, £27.95 hb) this week.