Queen Comes Close to Apology in Ireland

Posted on May 19, 2011

Speaking at a historic dinner in the castle that once headquartered Ireland’s British overseers, Queen Elizabeth II expressed regret over the two islands’ violent history: “To all those who have suffered as a consequence of our troubled past, I extend my sincere thoughts and deep sympathy.”

And she acknowledged “with the benefit of historical hindsight we can all see things which we wish had been done differently, or not at all.”

Irish President Mary McAleese welcomed the queen by noting that “Ireland and Britain are neighbors, equals, colleagues, friends.”

More from the Guardian.  —PZS

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