Ireland

Ireland is an island, which consists of Republic of Ireland and Nothern Ireland. It is situated in the west of Great Britain, in the North Atlantic Ocean.
The main cities are the capitals of each states, Dublin (capital of Republic) – over 40% of the population resides there, and Belfast (cap. Of Nothern I.).
The whole landscape consists mainly of the lowlands, there are almost no mountains but the range of mountains along the cost, which also is not very high. The highes peak is called Carrantuohill- 1040 m. Sometimes it is called a „bowl“.
The population of Ireland is predominately of Celtic origin, no significant ethnic minorities exist. It has got about 3,5 mil inhabitants, but many of Ir. People live abroad ( in USA and other).
Political system
Executive branch :
The head of state is the president, elected by direct popular vote for a 7-year term, max. for 14 years, who is also the supreme commander of the defence forces.
It is vested in the government, which is responsible to the lower house of the national legislature and is headed by the prime minister ( Bertie Ahern, since June 1997 )
Legislative authority :
is vested in a bicameral Parliament consists of the Senate (60 seats) and the Houses of Representatives (166 seats).
The most importent party is republicans.

The flag consists of three bands
green : old gaelic and anglosaxon origins   
orange : William of Orange   
white : peace, truth

Judicial branch :
is vested in a supreme court, judges are appointed by the president, than high court, court of criminal appeal and the discrict courts.

Economy

Ireland is a small, modern, trade-independent economy with very big growth, one of the most quickly developing country.
Agriculture, one of the most important sector is now dwarfed by the industry.
animal husbandry ( cattle, sheep, hogs, horses),
poultry production is also important.
The principal field crops are wheat, barley, oats,potatoes, sugar beats,beef, diary products...
The fishing industry is expanding.

CULTURE

They have very specific music made by violins, flutes or backpipes. They do not use their hands while dancing. The national sports are hurling. Horse racing is highly popular sport throughout the republic. Thank to its level ladnscape there are good conditions to play golf.