For a long time green has considered green to be the national colour of Ireland. The association between the colour green and Ireland dates back to the 18th century when the fight for
independence began. A green flag with a harp in the centre represented Ireland. The harp and the shamrock
are seen as symbols of Ireland and are registered under Article 6ter of the Paris Convention. They are also the
official emblems of Ireland and are used as a badge for sports teams, state organisations and troops abroad.
It has also been said that green is associated with the Irish weather. Even when there is snow in Ireland the
green never fades and the green fields will always be seen.
So, are there really forty shades of green in Ireland? That has been a question on many of minds dating back
to the Johnny Cash song ‘Forty Shades of Green’. In this song he sang about his love for Ireland and how the
different counties vividly show the ‘Forty Shades of Green’.
“I close my eyes and picture the emerald of the sea
from the fishin boats at Dingle to the shores at Dunehea
I miss the River Shannon and the folks at Skibbereen
the moorlands and meadows and their Forty Shades of Green”.
For many outside Ireland, green to them is just a colour, but for Irish people it is much more - it means
independence, wealth, growth, the landscape of the country and childhood stories. The importance of the
colour green can be seen on St. Patrick’s Day, when hundreds of countries from all over the world join in the
celebrations. People wear the shamrock or paint their faces green to celebrate St. Patrick’s Day.
Killarney is a prime example of the beautiful green landscape that Ireland has to offer. Killarney is known for
its beauty, friendly people and clean environment. Killarney inspired Poet Laureate Aldred Austin to write:
“If a mountain, wood and water harmoniously blent, constitute the most perfect and adequate loveliness that nature presents, it surely must be owned, that is has, all over the world, no superior”.
As green is also the colour of ECTA, the song title ‘Forty Shades of Green’ is most suitable for our conference
and working programme, which will bring you to Killarney. You will hear from people all over the world and
their views of IP. Just as a guide would take you through the beautiful landscape and town of Killarney, the
speakers will take you through the wonderful world of IP and the issues it faces. You will take a trip over the
next three days exploring the new and old landscapes of IP. We look forward very much to seeing you in
Killarney.
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