A country called Southern Ireland?

[volks76]

Does this mythical land actually exist? I've seen this country referred to quite a few times on AB but can't find it on any atlas!

[jno]

it's not a country, but it's an area, the same as southern England is, or the south of France. It's the bit towards the bottom of the page on most maps. The term may also be used to denote the whole Irish Republic - that bit of the island that isn't the UK territory of Northern Ireland - but this usage isn't strictly correct.

[ummmm]

And what a beautiful land it is

[Keeprockin]

I think the term is more political than geographical. My wife's from the most Northern county,Donegal,but still termed Southern Ireland. I don't believe i've met anyone yet who says they're from Eire. Usually just say Ireland,and if asked which part,then Southern is the usual reply

[heathfield]

Since many maps and atlases show 'Northern Ireland', then, by extension, one would expect there to be a 'Southern Ireland'. The reason there isn't is political. But it's simply been a convenient term to distinguish between the two. Personally, I use 'Eire'.
Very many people refer to the United States as 'America', though you won't find it described as such on maps and atlases.

[warpig1]

There are six counties in Northern Ireland and nine counties in Ulster, with 32 In ireland, sorry but can't clarify on this as don't want to get into any debates, but it is a green and pleasant land know matter where you go, just sit back, have a pint and enjoy the craic!

[Memore]

Northern Ireland is only called that because it was taken over by the British otherwise whole thing would be Ireland - I am half Irish and no one says Eire its always Ireland and pretty much assumed its the South they normally mention their county especially men of my dads age - also the North has a much different accent so most Irish people would know they from the North

[Mil P]

southern ireland is made up of chese

[Mil P]

s

[bookermel]

It's just northeast of Tir-na-oige ;o}

[smurfchops]

ummm I agree with you, what a lovely place. The only place, other than England, that I would retire to ... Like England was 30 years ago ...

[donegal]

i live in Donegal the most northern county in ireland but it is in the south !!