Decoding our history - Break curse of division

IN so many ways history, like drink, is the curse of the Irish.

Its consequences are, naturally, culturally unavoidable but in too many instances, provoke bitterness, disappointment and for far too long, even violence.

Despite everything, it can give us many reasons to feel good about ourselves and realise that if circumstances are right we can achieve almost anything. That so many Irish people born in the early days of this Republic can see their grandchildren enjoy opportunities in education that they could not have dreamt of is no small achievement and one we should not take for granted.

Our understanding of our past has led to many of us reaching different conclusions on similar questions because division is the constant theme of our history.

This evening RTÉ begins a new series — Story of Ireland at 10.15 — that will challenge some beliefs and advance new theories. We have been used by history for too long and if this programme helps us to reverse that relationship it will be another contribution towards a better understanding of ourselves and a better Ireland.