Learning Points: Jeers to alcohol abuse on St Patrick’s Day

Our nation, and maybe especially Dublin, the capital, is bracing for the devastation that this weekend’s St Patrick’s Day festivities leave in their wake. I have doubts about St Patrick’s Day.

For years, I have walked through the town the day after the celebrations and seen broken glass, vomit, blood, shop fronts defaced, and the odd random item of clothing strewn around, like a marauding army had gone through the place. And St Patrick himself, as a national figure and hero, needs addressing, too. But what I find most unsettling about this bogus holiday is the image we portray of ourselves for the world to see. Sure, buildings in New York City will have a green tinge for the day and there will be an impressive parade marching down Fifth Avenue, but, here in this country, how do we celebrate this national holiday?