Ireland Key Facts
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Recent History
The general election of May 2007 saw the re-election of Bertie Ahern's Fianna Fail party for a record third time, although they didn't manage to win an overall majority. Their partners in government are the right-of-centre Progressive Democrats, who lost two-thirds of their seats in the Dail but still managed to hold onto the ministerial portfolio in Health; and, for the first time ever, the Green Party, a sure sign that environmental concerns are becoming more important in the minds of the electorate - even if the Greens had to sacrifice a number of important policy positions when negotiating with Fianna Fail. The economy remains buoyant, despite growing interest rates and a slow-down in the construction market, which may result in a fall in house prices and the dreaded threat of negative equity for home-owners already stretched to the limit of their mortgage repayments.
Language
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Social Conventions
A meal in an Irish home is usually a substantial affair and guests will eat well. Dinner is the main meal of the day and is now eaten in the evening. Even in cities there is less formal wear than in most European countries and casual dress is widely acceptable as in keeping with a largely agricultural community. Women, however, often dress up for smart restaurants and social functions. Handshaking is usual, and modes of address will often be informal. Smoking is banned in all public enclosed/working spaces, including pubs, bars and restaurants.
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