The Ulster-Scots Scam via Skin Flicks
DUP Minister Edwin Poots (the lad who looks like the FA Cup, on the right) has gone back on the St Andrews Agreement by refusing point-blank to introduce an Irish Language Bill for Northern Ireland. Now, I don’t speak Irish and don’t intend to learn it. And I’m pretty disgusted at the amount of money pissed away on it in the Republic, where children for generations have been tortured by being forced to read about Kerry islander grannies with depression in a language that almost no one uses in day-to-day situations.And don’t get me started on the jobs ring-fenced for Irish speakers, the subsidised TV station, the civil service sinecures and the ridiculous legal and police profession language requirements. But it is a real language, and part of the heritage of this island, so...
As I mentioned earlier, I was out taking a few pictures of the 12th July parade in Belfast today as it made its way towards the field.
"Floats" carrying bands were introduced to the 12th July parade for the first time this year
While the steady drizzle was a slight disappointment after the beautiful sunshine of last years parade, it didn't seem to deter the crowds at all who, as usual, seemed to get caught up in the atmosphere and not notice themselves encroach further into the road with every passing band.
As well as the bands themselves there were a couple of floats this year; their inclusion aimed at broadening the appeal of the parade (the "floats" could perhaps more accurately described as hauliage lorries with the sides off, but the concept worked). One featured an...