Many Irish politicians have praised Queen Elizabeth for her reconciliation efforts between the two islands. Particularly during his trip to Dublin in 2011, the first time a British monarch had visited Ireland since independence. Then-president Mary McAleese speaks of a “magical” visit. Elizabeth II even spoke a few words in Irish, a much-loved symbol. But it is not necessarily the same feeling that reigns for everyone. The British Crown and what it symbolizes always arouses the anger of part of the population.
With our correspondent in Dublin, Laura Taouchanov
In front of the British Embassy in Dublin, a few passers-by lay flowers. A gesture that Sheila has trouble understanding. ” Part of me can’t forget how parts of Ireland were treated. They were shown zero mercy. There was strong segregation in Northern Ireland and I’m old enough to remember that. So I don’t feel any sympathy for the royal family. »
Since the announcement of his death, many celebratory messages have been pouring in on social networks. Irishmen like Bill – who have a good memory – explains the pensioner, one eye on the flag of Parliament at half mast. ” Ok, she came, she said a few words in Irish… but that was just serving us soup! I’m sorry, but fuck her! We certainly have to move forward, but there are a lot of wounds. Members of my family were surely killed by the British Empire. It’s his ancestors, it’s still there. »
At 22, Grania has not known the civil war, which perhaps explains why the young woman is more measured. ” We are taught to hate the English. But it makes me uncomfortable, all the people my age are in heaven ! Especially since we’re just going to have another monarch instead, an extra man, so it’s not going to get better! »
For their part, Unionists in Northern Ireland feel orphaned and fear for their British culture, already affected by the historic victory of the pro-reunification Republicans in the last election.