Related Archive: European Communities

1975 CE

Dublin Castle’s European Debut

Archived: 8 October 2026

Abstract

In 1975, Ireland hosted the first formal European Council meeting at Dublin Castle during its EEC presidency, signalling an expanded international role. Northern Ireland remained unstable despite IRA ceasefires: the Constitutional Convention favoured majority rule, while violence claimed 260 lives, including three Miami Showband members. Security policy proposed ending special-category prisoner status and building Maze H-Blocks. In the Republic, recession raised insured unemployment to 12 per cent, exposing dependence on British and European markets. Lasting changes included establishment of the Law Reform Commission, commencement of equal-pay legislation, and Oliver Plunkett’s canonisation. The year combined engagement, hardship, reform and national conflict.

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1970 CE

The Falls Road Curfew

Archived: 8 October 2026

Abstract

1970 marked a decisive hardening of the Northern Ireland conflict and its impact on the Republic. Security reforms replaced the B Specials with the Ulster Defence Regiment, while Ian Paisley’s election and the Alliance Party’s foundation reflected polarised and alternative politics. The British Army’s thirty-four-hour Lower Falls curfew, searches, gun battles and civilian deaths alienated Catholic communities. In Dublin, the Arms Crisis split Fianna Fáil after allegations of illegal arms imports, despite subsequent acquittals. A prolonged bank strike and cement dispute disrupted economic life. Ireland also opened European Community negotiations, while Dana’s Eurovision victory provided a notable all-island cultural moment.

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