Should the IFA adopt its own national anthem?

Recently we had the disgraceful but in some ways predictable behaviour of some fans (but at least it was a minority) at the Northern Ireland versus Republic of Ireland match during the playing of the National Anthems. I was always taught that no matter how you feel about a country, or its government’s policies, you should always respect the national anthem. However, at the same time – why do the Irish Football Association still continue to use God Save the …

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‘We’ still are Soldier Boys…

Much has been said in recent years about the suitability of God Save the Queen remaining the Northern Ireland National Anthem, particularly for sporting events and especially its use in Windsor Park for Northern Ireland matches. Seldom discussed however are the suitability of the militaristic, xenophobic and insular lyrics of Amhrán na bhFiann (The Soldier’s Song) remaining the National Anthem of the Republic of Ireland. A poll by the Sunday Independant has indeed revealed that a large number of people …

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