Irish Culture

Do’s

• Try to be receptive to humour as the Irish appreciate good banter, and joking is a great way of establishing rapport.
• Engage in conversation topics about the arts in Ireland (e.g. literature and music), sport, one's place of origin and family.
• Be aware of pub etiquette. Try to observe others when in doubt about how you should behave.
• If someone ‘slags’ you (teases or jokingly insults), try to reply with good humour and show you are not disconcerted by it. Humour is a common communicative tool in Ireland and slagging is usually not ill-intended.
• The topic of Northern Ireland and the role of the UK in Irish politics is not necessarily taboo. However, do approach this conversation topic with a high degree of sensitivity and willingness to listen to your counterpart.

Don’ts

• Do not refer to those from the Republic of Ireland as ‘British’. Be mindful that many in Northern Ireland will be offended if referred to as ‘Irish’.
• Similarly, do not refer to Ireland as the United Kingdom and vice versa. These are two distinct countries with differing cultures.
• Avoid stereotyping your Irish counterpart. Referring to stereotypes or clichés will not be well received, particularly stereotypes relating to alcohol and drunkenness.
• Try not to dominate a conversation, be aggressive or overly direct. This can be interpreted as being pretentious and impolite.