"London shenanigans" bears little relation to historical reality. Dev was a wily old bugger, always in Ireland when needed in England and in the US when needed in Ireland, leaving others to take the tough decisions and carry the can. The Irish London delegation was threatened by all-out War by Lloyd George, one of the most skilful, powerful and toughest politicians of the 20th century. You have to take into account the utter determination of those who organised the Curragh Mutiny, the formation of the old UVF, the Larne gun running and the signing of the Ulster Covenant, some with their own blood. Remember too, Ireland was partitioned by the Government of Ireland Act of 1920, not the Treaty of 6 December 1921. Collins hated Partition more than most but what, dear GUEST, was the alternative? I think recent history has vindicated Collins realistic assessment of the religious and cultural differences that are still so important today. Thanks Fiolar for all the info on the Statue.