I do not generally get involved in debates or discussions concerning Northern Ireland. I do however understand the cause of Irish nationalism. I also understand that unionists living in Northern Ireland are hold a greater sense of loyalty to Queen and country than many of us living in mainland Britain.

I do not wish to denigrate Jim in this thread, but he clearly lacks an understanding of the situation over there. It seems somewhat strange that someone living in Milltown in County Clare should express republican aspirations. As I recall Seán O'Carroll, is the only County Clare volunteer to join the ranks of a Belfast battalion, then again, you have to go back to the 1920's for that example.

I do understand the nationalist community faced injustice concerning housing, the electoral system and employment in the province. These matters have long since been addressed. I think Mr. Carroll would have difficulty finding a member of the Northern Ireland nationalist community telling him otherwise.

If changes in the constitution of Northern Ireland are to occur, it will be for the 1.6 million people living there to decide. Not us living on the mainland, and certainly not those living in the Irish Republic.

I fear the biggest challenge to the peace process will occur after the May elections. Sinn Fein should take the office as First minister. Hardliners within unionism will find this a bitter pill to swallow and possibly through unity withdraw from government, subsequently collapsing the assembly. I feel Northern Ireland will eventually go back to direct rule within a decade. I hope I am proven to be wrong.

Jim expressing his aspirations of a united Ireland is as romantic as St, Patrick's day in New York. He is unrealistic and incapable of understanding the opinions of others.