Some thoughts after visiting Ireland
After spending six weeks in Ireland in the city of Galway on business, yes, I’m glad to be home here in the states. I can tell you this, the Irish still hold us Americans in high regard. They still marvel over when President Obama visited there about a year and a half ago.
It was nice being in a country where the Garda or police did not carry guns. It was also nice being in a country where the NRA (pardon the pun) had no pull. Unemployment is between 12 and 15 percent, but you really did not see it. Ireland is a very young country with a seemingly mean age of 25-35 years of age. Tech savvy? The Irish are. They love their amateur sports of hurling, Gaelic football and national soccer. Food and other items cost at least a one-third more in Ireland than here, and gasoline is nearly the equivalent of $7 to $8 a gallon.
The Irish I spoke to are very interested in the upcoming election here and have their opinions. The pub is still the hub of activity, and finding a conversation was easy for me. Ireland: wonderful country, people and, yes, I would go back in a heartbeat. I’ve got many more stories to share, so if you see me around town, buy me a Guinness and let’s talk. Thanks a million!
Mark Stastny
Rolling Meadows