Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland is a part of the United Kingdom located in the north-east of the island of Ireland. It shares a border to the south and west with the Republic of Ireland. In 2011, its population was 1,810,863, constituting about 30% of the island's total population and about 3% of the UK's population. Established by the Northern Ireland Act 1998 as part of the Good Friday Agreement, the Northern Ireland Assembly holds responsibility for a range of devolved policy matters, while other areas are reserved for the British government. Northern Ireland co-operates with the Republic of Ireland in several areas, and the Agreement settled a dispute over the region's status.

History

The history of Northern Ireland can be traced back to the Partition of Ireland in 1921 when it became a separate legal entity from the rest of Ireland, following the Government of Ireland Act 1920. This was a result of the Irish War of Independence between Irish nationalists and the British government.

Politics

Northern Ireland is a distinct legal jurisdiction, separate from the two other jurisdictions in the United Kingdom (Scotland and England and Wales). It is also a separate 'region' for the purposes of European Union law.

Economy

The economy of Northern Ireland is the smallest of the four countries of the United Kingdom. Northern Ireland previously had a traditionally industrial economy, most notably in shipbuilding, rope manufacture and textiles, but most heavy industry has since been replaced by services.

Culture

The culture of Northern Ireland is a mixture of British and Irish influences. There is also a specific Ulster Scots culture. The region has two official languages, English and Irish, and a recognised regional language, the Ulster Scots.

See also

• History of Northern Ireland
• Politics of Northern Ireland
• Economy of Northern Ireland
• Culture of Northern Ireland

Northern Ireland Resources
Latest articles Most recent articles Ongoing trials	Wikipedia