This event may not share the "glamour" of others but IMO it's one the most important of the entire Jubilee year. I remember the IRA bombing of Manchester all too clearly and the utter devastation that followed along with growing up at a time when the threat from the IRA was all too real.
Moreover, I think QEII has done tremendously well in this instance. Irrespective of your position on Northern Ireland her own uncle was killed by the IRA, she's just as much a victim of their terrorism as others.
This event probably will receive nowhere near enough press coverage and will fade into oblivion next to the Cambridges' Asian tour but it is undoubtedly far more significant.
It says more about us that a clothes horse will end up with more publicity than a woman acknowledging the man whose actions may have led to the death of a family member.
JMO.
Thank you LS for putting this important visit into perspective. Event though I was in CA I have too many memories of the "Troubles," being an all too familiar presence on our world news coverage in the 70's and 80's. IMHO I would have forecast the end of the Cold War before I would have considered a peaceful situation between Catholics and Protestants in Northern Ireland.
HM's reign now can have two successful and historic visits to the Republic of Ireland and now this meeting. IMO this shows her continued deep connection to the people in the UK and the Commonwealth.
Too bad that the editors and news writers will consider it more important to focus on the fashion choices of the BRF female members than this visit.
