I love the original song - I first learned it from an Eric Bogle recording, and sang it (admittedly to a bunch of teenagers) in Ireland in 1984, and was surprised they didn't know it- when did the Fureys record it? Anyway they all loved the song. I've seen Eric perform many times and love his work, but I must say the various parodies are great! Yet another example of the folk process at work with a sense of humour! This is not to take anything away from those who fought for freedom, and I am sure Eric would understand the many different viewpoints on this complex issue.
Cheers,
Quokka