February 17, 2011
By Staff Reporter
Family arguments at Irish wakes are not uncommon. Siblings have been known to exchange blows even before the coffin is in the ground. John Paul II had a special place in the hearts of many Irish people, so it is not unusual that the current debate has divided much of the country.
“We won’t be having a national day of mourning as such, but between now and the funeral, we will fully participate in all [events], and we would ask people to fully comply not just for one day, but for each day, with the flags at half mast, and to be involved in the church services,” Ahern said Sunday, prompting some alarm in political and trade union circles.
Former MEP Dana Rosemary Scallan led the calls for an official day of mourning. She was supported by the unions and several leading politicians.
However Ahern’s decision was met with approval from employers organizations. IBEC said it was the correct option. Pat Delaney of the Small Firms Association said that a national day of mourning would have cost the Irish economy in the region of