The Island Men, as sung by Men of No Property, early 1970s:


From Belfast town I'm on my way
On a ship that was built for the tourist trade
I leave my home and the land where I was born
And I won't come back till my fortune is made

Chorus:
I served my time with the Island men
And I've known good times and work in plenty
But there's no work now in these troubled times
For the shipyard slips are lying empty

Farewell to my father and mother fair,
Old age has laid its hand upon you
You loved me well and you never failed
It's leaving your side my heart will rue

I promised to write when I've settled down
To ease your mind, for I know you'll worry
Think of the time when I return
But don't count the days for time won't hurry

I'll remember the hills and the fresh north air
I'll remember the girls with their friendly smiles
I'll think of the city and the friends that I have there
And I hope my love will transcend the miles.

I'm leaving the land where I was born
But I long for the day of my returning
To a job, a home, and peace of mind-
For the Belfast people I'll always be yearning