Symposium Location
Ireland
Ireland, geographically a small island on the edge of Europe, with a population of 5.5 million, is often viewed as the last vestige before the wrath of the Atlantic. With the longest coastline per head of population in Europe, it is 486 kilometres long and 275 kilometres wide. However, its physical situation and isolation belies its inner strengths, strong influences and resilient links with the rest of the world.
Though an English speaking nation, Gaeilge is Ireland’s official language, a language historically defended and retained by the Irish as part of their national Identity particularly in the struggle for independence.
Ireland’s greatest pride has always been it's people yet ironically, until relatively recently, it's people have constituted Ireland’s greatest export. This has resulted in a significant diaspora laying claim to their Irish roots and asserting their ancestry.
Today, the reverse can be said. Present day Ireland is a country with significant immigration with all people being welcomed to share in the prosperity that has defined the country in recent years. The influx of such a variety of cultures adds much to the make-up of modern Ireland creating a rich multi-cultural tapestry.
Ireland is no stranger to political struggle, and securing and maintaining peace in all aspects of life on the island is still a very live issue in the Irish political agenda.
Throughout the changes in recent years, Ireland has retained its reputation as the country of a hundred thousand welcomes. It is a land that offers the visitor much - golf, hill-walking, horse-riding, archaeological sites, old Christian settlements, dramatic seascapes or just a place to relax.
Dublin
Dublin is a youthful, vibrant and dynamic city. It is the capital city of Ireland with a population of 1.5 million and growing. The effects of economic growth, known locally as the Celtic Tiger, are evident in the rapid development of Dublin as an emerging international city and though this change is welcomed it brings challenges to the social fabric of Dublin life.
The city is rich in its cultural facilities from art galleries, theatres and parks to historical sites and musical havens. Architecturally of particular interest are the Georgian buildings and their famous Georgian doors. Dublin has a wide variety of good quality restaurants, lively pubs and easy accessible shopping in a relaxed atmosphere. As intimate as a village, sophisticated as a metropolis and as friendly as a family occasion, the city possesses that universal appeal.
