Melchett Mike says ....

Next is the Catholic Falls Road, where I am immediately ‘greeted’ by the sight of a Palestinian flag (right) flying proudly from its mast; and, a mere few hundred yards further, the Protestant Shankill Road, which flies Israeli flags in counter provocation (though, judging from the folk I speak to on both sides, neither has a clue about the conflict here).

Such arrogance and condescension. The nationalist communities of West Belfast are among the most politically astute people in the world. I suppose by " not having a clue about the conflict here " he means their understanding does not square with his chosen " understanding ". I guess mike's is a typical " if its Tuesday this must be Belgium " perspective

The nationalist communities of West Belfast understand only too well. As an occupied people they have a natural sympathy for other occupied peoples. Ergo they fly the Palestinian flag. The folks of the Shankill Road , having a natural sympathy for occupying powers,fly the Israeli flag. It's not rocket science. You don't have to decide which side you are on yet. It's not yet Armagedon. But as the man said " It's not dark yet, but it's getting there "

As for the claim that an obviously semitic person couldn't tour England, including it's pubs, in safety, is just so laughable and explainable only in terms of the most advanced stage of paranoia.

And as for retiring to Kinsale...perleeeeze Anyone with the merest hint of good taste who wanted to retire to West Cork would go to Skibbereen or Baltimore.