Related Archive: Ian Paisley

2007 CE

Paisley and McGuinness

Archived: 26 September 2026

Abstract

In 2007, Northern Ireland’s devolved government returned, with DUP leader Ian Paisley and Sinn Féin’s Martin McGuinness jointly heading an Executive, turning power-sharing into practical administration. In the Republic, Bertie Ahern won a third election and formed a coalition with the Greens and Progressive Democrats amid Celtic Tiger prosperity. However, cooling house prices and reliance on construction exposed economic vulnerability. Census results highlighted immigration, changing households and religious diversity, while Irish gained EU official-language status. Corrib gas protests, scrutiny of Ahern’s finances and criminal-justice legislation raised questions of trust and authority. Cultural initiatives and smoke-free rules reflected wider social change.

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1964 CE

The Cyprus Contingent

Archived: 8 October 2026

Abstract

In 1964, Lemass’s government pursued industrial growth, exports and European integration, while emigration, rural change and dependence on British markets persisted. Ireland committed a voluntary battalion to the United Nations peacekeeping force in Cyprus, extending its international role after the Congo without abandoning neutrality. Domestic legislation addressed adoption, welfare, financial institutions, industry and regional development. Britain’s import charge exposed economic vulnerability, prompting talks between Lemass and Harold Wilson. Belfast’s Divis Street disturbances over an Irish tricolour revealed sectarian inequalities and policing grievances in Northern Ireland. Cultural life marked Seán O’Casey’s death and notable work by Brian Friel and Flann O’Brien.

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