Business is also shaping Irish identity

Amid the myriad of events surrounding the 1916 Rising a narrative has developed about the key drivers of change in Irish society. That, understandably, has focused on the role of culture, labour, sport and women as agents of change behind the formation of the Irish Republic 100 years ago.

One factor which has been largely ignored in the debates and analysis about Ireland forging an independent future has been the role of business.

Sometimes it feels like advocates of industry as a critical piece of the Republic’s tapestry are unwelcome on a stage where other factors are deemed of greater value.