I am well aware of the large contingent of Irish volunteers who served in WW1. The obscenity of the horrible carnage, with men sent in against machine guns. The Irish fought bravely on Britain's side. The tragedy of Home Rule being rejected for Ireland and then later the "troubles". Assassinations and criminal acts by both sides in the 1920's.
I have record of a Great Grandfather born in County Cork, though of English parents. London relatives married persons of Irish descent. The misery of human beings should be recognized with empathy. Then find the reason why they act as they do. Lastly it is the immortal Scottish bard that said it best.
Man's inhumanity to man, makes countless thousands mourn.
Robert Burns.
>> I have record of a Great Grandfather born in County Cork
My heritage similar but one step closer.