A Little About Ireland

• Population: 4.6 million (July 2011) 

• Currency: 1 euro=$1.37 

• Capital: Dublin

• Airports: 
• Belfast City Airport
• Cork Airport
• Derry Airport
• Donegal Regional Airport
• Dublin Airport
• Kerry International Airport
• Ireland West Airport Knock
• Galway Airport
• Shannon Airport
• Sligo Regional Airport
• Waterford Regional Airport

• People and Culture: 
• 0-14 years: 21.1% (male 503,921/female 483, 454)
• 15-64 years: 67.3% (male 1,581,959/female 1,560,238)
• 65 years and over: 11.6% (male 246,212/female 295,192) (2011)

• The people of Ireland are known to be very hospitable and friendly in nature. Having a family life is very important to most Irish people. More traditional customs can be seen in the rural areas of Ireland. A more modern culture occurs in urban areas of Ireland. Many homes are built the same way and colorful doors is a staple of the country. Farming has been a major part of Ireland's sustainability and today Irish farmers use the latest methods for their farming needs. The Irish industry also includes textiles, clothing, and pharmaceuticals. Many bands still play traditional Irish music including celtic music. Step dancing is the most popular form of dancing. Meat and potatoes are staple foods and widely consumed in Ireland.  

• Diversity of Country: Irish 87.4%, other white 7.5%, Asian 1.3%, black 1.1%, mixed 1.1%, unspecified 1.6% (2006 census)

• Religion: Roman Catholic 87.4%, Church of Ireland 2.9%, other Christian 1.9%, other 2.1%, unspecified 1.5%, none 4.2% (2006 census)

• Weather: Mild winters, cool summers; consistently humid; overcast about half the time

• Language: English, Gaelic 

• Political Conditions: Republic and parliamentary democracy
• Chief of State: President Mary McAleese (since November 11, 1997) 
• Head of Government: Prime Minister Enda Kenny (since March 9, 2011)

• Differences in Terminology: 
  Headmaster=principal 
  Postman=mailman 
  Post code=zip code 
  Class=grade 
  Loo=restroom 
  Lift=elevator 
  Rubber=eraser 
  Holiday=vacation 
  Petrol=gas 
  Dustbin=garbage can 
  Jumper=sweater 
  Rucksack=backpack
  Sellotape=scotch tape
  Chemist=drugstore 
  
  
• Communication styles:
• Honesty is appreciated and expected. 
• Communication is direct but well colored, meaning that the Irish love to tell stories. 
• Humor plays a big role in communication.  In general, Irish culture values teasing and joking during conversation.  Therefore, pulling someone’s leg is often meant in good fun. 

Links to sources of information: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6