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Ireland

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As Brexit officially comes into play today, papers all over the globe covered the implications of the UK leaving the European Union.

The Guardian put together a very fetching front page, featuring Europe as a jigsaw puzzle, with the UK missing.

However, the chunk missing also includes a large portion of the Emerald Isle. 

 This has left some Irish folk very baffled, as ROI areas like Donegal and Monaghan were also removed.

Obviously this was just a slight oversight on The Guardian's part, but of course that didn't stop people making jokes about it on Twitter. 

Counties like Offaly and Cork got an awful slagging, as people joked about wanting to give those away in return for the missing ones. 

Old rivalries we're also dug up, in traditional Irish spirit. 

"Cork raging because they were full sure the Dubs would be away."

"Hopes of 'real capital' status dashed," joked one. 

Others got pretty political with their tweets regarding the missing piece of the puzzle. 

"Hey most of the six counties didn't vote to leave but that isn't stopping the Brits," said another.

However, most people took a joking stance to the whole thing.

Feature image:  Kath Viner/Twitter

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The Irish are known, the world over, as a nation of storytellers.

Our oral tradition dates back centuries, and for a country of its diminutive size, Ireland has produced some of the most celebrated writers, playwrights, poets and performers in history.

And while we may no longer employ the services of the traditional seanchaí, our day-to-day tradition of storytelling has in no way diminished.

Millennials may not gather friends and family around a fire and regale them with tales of yore, but they do partake in their own unique version of storytelling on a daily basis.

Whether it's through Snapchat, Twitter, Instagram, Facebook or with the help of their blog or vlog, this generation have made skillful use of the platforms available to them and ultimately proven themselves masters of storytelling.

The medium may have changed, but the tradition hasn't.

But at a time when our social media feeds are awash with stories from around the world, it's the storytellers who have honed the craft who truly stand out from the crowd.

Whether their story comes in the shape of a 140-character Twitter post, side-by-side Instagram upload or short and snappy Snapchat story, the person behind the story has considered their audience and played to their expectations.

You can argue that the advent of social media (and its multiple filters and edit/ delete functions) means the storyteller can present a certain version of their tale to the world ultimately rendering the 'story' less authentic, but that doesn't mean it's any less captivating or engaging.

We celebrate works of fiction in the same way we laud real-life stories. We pay tribute to scriptwriters in the same way we hail documentary-makers  And we praise painters in the same way we honour photographers.

Fact, fiction or filtered; if a story engages, it engages.

Whether the 'story' presented is an accurate representation of the individual's life is beside the point because if an audience decides it is sufficiently fascinated, it will come back for more.

An individual who presents the public with a warts-and-all version of their life is no more worthy of praise than a person who creates a visual or written narrative which niftily sidesteps the grimmer side of daily life.

A story is a story is a story.

As the SHEmazing Awards seek to illustrate, social media has created a whole new generation of storytellers, inspired a generation of creatives and given a voice to those whose story deserves a platform.

Oh, and while we have you; don't forget to have your say in the inaugural SHEmazing Awards this May! It's time to vote, and you can do it right here! 

 

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Ulster Bank has announced that they are closing 22 branches across Ireland.

Five branches in Dublin will close their doors as well as four in Cork.

Two branches in each of Galway, Limerick, Cavan and Donegal will also see closures as well as branches in Mayo, Sligo, Monaghan, Offaly and Longford.

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It is expected that the closures will see 220 job losses.

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Rejoice! The McMór burger is making a comeback to McDonald's.

McDonald's Ireland confirmed the news today that the totally Irish burger is making its way back due to popular demand, however it will only be available for a limited amount of time.

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Rolling out nationwide tomorrow, you will be able to enjoy the juicy feed for six weeks only.

The McMór is the fast food chain's first locally sourced burger in Ireland, and is made up of 100 per cent Irish beef, bacon from Dawn Meats and Dew Valley, Charleville Cheddar cheese and Ballymaloe Relish.

We can't wait to sink of teeth into this delish meal again.

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Ireland is a wonderful, magical island full of leprechauns and banshees (at least, that's what we tell the tourists) but there are a few other totally unique Irish things that should be celebrated on our national holiday.

From spice bags to saying bye a million times at the end of a phone call, we love these aspects of the Emerald Isle. 

10. Pub culture

Obviously us Irish folk have a bit of a reputation for being total sauce merchants, but the Irish pub scene is one of the best in the world.

From a quick pint and chat in the local to a big night out, we know how to enjoy ourselves. 

9. Our delightful penchant for pessimism 

"Ah sure, I might be on my death bed but sure, it's grand."

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8. Being a nation of tea drinkers

A nice cup'o tea fixes everything, from a broken heart to an exhausted brain from a long day at work.

Rain or shine, good vibes or bad, tea is a constant Irish comfort. Just don't get us started on the Barry's VS Lyon's debate… 

7. The tin whistle

We were all forced to ply this heinous musical instrument in primary school, and now we can still bash out Mary Had A Little Lamb if the mood takes us. 

That's about as far as our musical talent extends, unforch. 

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6. Tayto sandwiches

The crème de la crème of crispy goodness, a Tayto sandwich is a taste of home that deserves a national holiday of its own. 

Too good. 

5. President Michael D Higgins

Seriously, how blessed are we that this wonderful little man is our president? 

He never wears fake tan, never threatens to build walls, nothing. And we love him for it. 

4Being incapable of taking a compliment

"I SAID Penneys finest, now stop being nice to me, I look a state!"

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3. GAA lads

You will find this unique specimen hanging around the clubhouse, in Coppers or in the gym.

They wear their jerseys to mass and have probably brought some form of glory to your home town at one stage or another. All hail. 

2. Hot chicken rolls

Deli culture is big in Ireland, and while we might be partial to the odd jambon or two, hot chicken rolls are where our true loyalties lie. 

Whether you opt for goujons or fillet, red sauce or mayo, the chicken roll can cure a myriad of ails, from a hangover to true, aching hunger. 

1. An epic slagging

Only in Ireland can taking the piss out of someone mercilessly be a sign of true love and respect. 

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We honestly don't know why we're surprised by the Irish weather.

Each and every year without fail, it seems like Ireland gives a little glimpse of sunshine during February, and then come March (when it's supposed to be bright and sunny) it's back to dull days and freezing mornings.

Therefore, our plans of whipping out the sun dresses and light jackets have gone out the window.

So, if you want to be warm and comfy, but still ooze colourful Spring style, here are a few looks to help you out:

 

The light puffer jacket

The puffer jacket is still a major trend for this season, so brighten things up a bit by going for a bold blue or bright yellow.

L-R: ONLY padded jacket – €46.67
New Look pink puffer – €59.99
PrettyLittleThing blue jacket – €60

 

 

Leather/vinyl trousers

While the vinyl trouser trend is huge at the moment, it can be hard to pull off. If you don't fancy it, opt for leather – it'll keep you dry and you'll still look slick.

L-R: ASOS vinyl trousers – €40
River Island leather trousers – €53.33
ASOS vinyl with zips – €60

 

 

Bright boots

Step away from the black boots! Put a spark in your footsteps with these vibrant booties.

L-R: ASOS ankle boots – €73.33
ASOS bow boots – €48
Dr Martens floral – €166.66

 

 

Slip dresses

These will come in handy for when the sun finally arrives, but for now, team your slip dress with a jumper, tights or just layer it up. Sorted!

L-R: ASOS embroidered slip – €80
Monki leopard print slip – €33.33
Honey Punch black floral – €56

 

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The pressures associated with today's career-driven society means your mental health can suffer, and caring for it can take a backseat as you attempt to make strides in your chosen field.

A recent study by the Institute of Directors found that only 14 per cent of businesses have a policy in place to help an employee who is suffering with mental health issues.

And to further that, staff using sick days for their mental health has risen by 25 percent over the past number of years.

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Work can be hella stressful, and even the best of us can be brought down by deadlines, bad reports, or simply, just a few bad days.

So, to help you when you're feeling a bit down, here are five steps to take to boost your mood and not let work get the better of you:

1. Take notes

Keep a work notebook and write down the various situations and tasks that make you feel the most stressed or give you anxiety. 

Recording your thoughts and seeing them on paper can be great for clearing your mind, and combating whatever issues you may have.

 

2. Create boundaries

With today's technology, it can seem like you're on the go 24/7. Even if a work email arrives in your inbox at 9pm, most people feel inclined to reply.

Establish some boundaries for yourself and make sure you switch off by a certain time each day. Relax your mind and forget about work.

 

3. Recharge

While a lot of Irish businesses don't have mental health guidelines in place, there's no issue with using your holiday days.

Plan to do some of your favourite activities on those days, and don't even think about work. By letting yourself recharge, you'll be more relaxed when stepping back into the workplace.

 

4. Have an open conversation

If work is really getting you down and you feel like it's making a negative impact on your mental health, talking to your boss/supervisor could be very beneficial.

Have an honest conversation about how your feeling, and clarify what might make things better. It might be scary to open up, but a weight will be lifted off your shoulders when you do.

 

5. Speak to a professional

If you feel like your mental health is on a downward spiral, help yourself by talking to a professional.

There are numerous websites, call lines and counselling services here in Ireland that can help you with any issues you might have.

You can check out Mental Health Ireland for a list of services or visit Grow to look at resources in your area.

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Remember, you are more important.

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It has been reported that some rural counties may be losing their post offices.

An Post is currently looking to save money after losing around €12m a year from its branch network.

There are currently 1,300 post offices around the country, and according to the Irish Independent, the company is looking at closing around 80 locations.

However, the publication claims that this is just one cost-saving route the company may go down, and management is currently reviewing its research.

 

 

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You can't beat the Irish humour.

We take the mick out of anything, and basically go roundabout ways of explaining things.

Well, this Dublin comedian, Emma Doran, decided to ask her dad all about aul fella language – and the outcome was pretty funny.

From phrases such as 'grand', which means your dad just doesn't want to talk to you, to telling you 'ask your mother', which means he doesn't want to be bothered, there's a lot of hidden meanings.

And frankly, most of them just mean he wants you to leave him alone.

Have a watch of Emma's video and let us know if your dad speaks 'aul fella language'.

 

 

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In these times, it can sometimes feel like Ireland has gone backwards, or our residents aren't creative enough to build major empires for themselves.

But honestly, that couldn't be further from the truth.

While attending Ireland's Best Young Entrepreneur Awards in Google HQ yesterday, I saw first-hand just how driven, smart, and ambitious young entrepreneurs in Ireland are.

The awards are aimed at people between the ages of 18 and 35, who own, manage and control their own businesses – and there’s a lot of reasons why they enter this competition.

There is a €2m investment fund and business support to help their businesses along the way. There's also various amounts of prize money given out to winners and runners-up in each field.

But their drive extends far beyond monetary incentive as I discovered yesterday.

These people are passionate about their businesses, they’re not afraid to take risks and they believe in themselves – something we should all try, no matter what line of work we’re in.

Ciara Clancy, who took home two awards for Best Established Business and Ireland’s Best Young Entrepreneur, is not only changing the medical game for Parkinson's Disease in Ireland, but pushing boundaries all over the world with her app.

Richard Barrett, who created Pundit Arena, is giving sports journalism a new playing field and Roisin Hogan, who used to be an accountant, is now trying to change how busy women eat on-the-go.

No two businesses were the same, yet they all gained from being part of this programme.

Entrepreneurship in Ireland has majorly grown over the past five years, with start-up businesses accounting for two thirds of all new jobs in Ireland.

And with this being Local Enterprise Week, you can see how much backing start-up businesses have in Ireland, which is something I never realised before.

€32 million was invested in start-up businesses last year, with Enterprise Ireland supporting 229 new companies.

The government want you to be creative. They want you to come to them with a business idea. And, they want to help you make that vision a reality.

And as airy-fairy as that may sound, it's clear that more people need to do it.

We complain that there’s no jobs in Ireland, yet the nominees who took part in yesterday’s awards ranged from professionals in journalism, agriculture, motors, healthy eating and even bee-keeping.

There was a niche for everyone. They all created jobs in their local county, but most of all, they have all created a business that will not only help the economy, but bring new life to it.

Going forward I just hope Ireland becomes more creative and more young Irish people are inspired to create new businesses on their own. It's where the future is at.

So many people are fighting to create a better workforce, a better living standard… a better Ireland. 

The help and support is there for you. Grab it. Even if you only have a small idea, but are determined to make it work – just go for it.

Entrepreneurs create businesses, jobs, and growth in Ireland. They are the heroes of our economy.

So g'wan, be a hero.

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Well never forget Kim Kardashian's honeymoon in Ireland.

And apparently, she loves us all so much that she's added Ireland into her Hollywood online game.

Yep, if you update the game, you will have the ability to travel to Dublin so you can grab a pint in the pub.

Of course, this is causing some mixed reactions on Twitter, and we've rounded up the best of the lot:

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First Dates Ireland has become one of our favourite TV shows.

And we all like to believe that those on the show will fall madly in love and enjoy many more dates to come.

But, did you know they get paid for it?

According to the Irish Sun, the participants on the show are offered €50 to say yes to going on a second date. Hmmm…

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Apparently, there was such a low number of successful matches last year that the show bosses gave a little incentive for their to be love in the air.

A former dater told the publication: “We were offered €25 walking into the date, presumably meant as some sort of generous form of compensation for going on a date which would be seen by the nation.

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“When the date had ended and they separated us to get our honest views on how it had all gone, I was then offered €50 by one of the production team if I said I’d be up for going on a second date with her, so I obviously took it!”

RTÉ declined to comment on the claims when contacted by the Irish Sun.

So, did they all even fancy each other?!

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