The West Belfast Peace Wall between the Nationalist Falls/Springfield road and the Loyalist Shankill

The West Belfast Peace Wall or Peace Line runs for 5 kms dividing the Loyalist, Protestant community from the Catholic, Nationalist community. It begins at the lower Falls/Shankill and runs as far as Springmartin in the west of the city. We visit several interface gates in this video (Townsend Street, Northumberland Street, Lanark Way and Workman Avenue) as well as discussing the wall's origins in the Belfast civil unrest in 1969 - in that context we walk down the redeveloped Bombay Street, originally burnt down in riots at the start of the Troubles.
A lot of work goes into these videos. You can now buy me a pint as a means of appreciation for my work on Naked Ireland, no obligation, obviously - only if you can afford it... I appreciate it. Cheers.
www.buymeacoffee.com/NakedIre...
Wikipedia reference here:
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peace_l...
Interface map & database:
www.belfastinterfaceproject.o...

[@IanBlimey]

Wonderfully narrated Greg. As a born protestant (now atheist) who grew up in the shadow of the peace wall (literally) I had a sense of hope 13 years ago which is now dwindling. I was born in 7th street on the Shankill and spent some years living in Mountcashel street about 50 metres from the peace wall. In all I spent 27 years in the shadow of the thing. I married a catholic and could never fully comprehend why we were killing each other. I think the crux is that thugs on both sides have committed atrocities and it's now difficult for both sides to forgive past actions. I call myself Irish and am proud of it. My concern is that a referendum, regardless of which way it goes, will see one side up in arms.

[@nakedireland]

Thanks Ian, good comment, good point.

[@SolidusSnapes]

Fair play Ian. Im Catholic but would consider myself atheist. Green and orange better together than this shite. Tear down the walls and have harsher penaltys for breaches of the peace on both ends.

[@IanBlimey]

@@SolidusSnapes Agreed mate.

[@the_Dogpacker]

Can I ask sth stupid? Is it safe to assume that most people who have no interest in that conflict and can afford it do move out of the proximity of the wall, away from the "frontline"? Because only knowing this from documentaries it seems like a tense atmosphere to live in.

[@Waynebridgeof]

@@the_Dogpacker it’s really not hostile at all honestly we work together all year , I will say come July time it starts to get a bit hostile with the 12th day of July one side of the peace wall marchs in honour of their king who killed the other side of the peace walls king so for a couple of weeks the Protestants March around the place reminding the catholics that this is their victory and lay to claim the land on the other side the simply get on with life as normal it’s kind of funny but when I’m unfolds into violence ther is nothing funny about it

[@Benji66820]

Nothing says sectarian conflict like smoothe, avante garde jazz, Nice.

[@MrAdriancooke]

Hard to know if you are being sarcastic or not

[@jimmycburfield5997]

It’s a great choice! One I am sure the editor of ‘wrong note magazine’ would agree with. Great…….. I love that 32 bar AABA structure

[@danieldolce5734]

I just watched a video a few days ago about the August 1969 attack on Bombay St. so I found the part that showed the memorial garden especially poignant. Thanks for this eye opening video.

[@nakedireland]

No problem Daniel, glad you enjoyed it. Do check out some other Naked Ireland videos. There are a couple of other that touch on the Troubles, if that’s what you’re interested in.

[@LadyPolz]

Glad you made this video. Particularly apt for this particular moment. Great music too!

[@nakedireland]

Glad you took the trouble to watch - thanks for your support.

[@judithwilliams3835]

Thank you for a very professional and informative film. The music was particularly apt.

[@nakedireland]

Thanks Judith, that means a lot. I hope you’ll check out some other Naked Ireland films.

[@melissagabriel3049]

Great filming and content will continue to watch from Arizona

[@nakedireland]

Thanks so much Melissa.

[@TheMeconiumMan]

Thanks for this future history lesson 🤞

[@TOGETHERWEAREFAMILY]

Great content. Big thumbs up 😊

[@nakedireland]

Thanks so much - appreciate that.

[@jacquicaffrey6607]

Great footage and music. You are right, people on both sides deserve better

[@nakedireland]

The area is very rundown - needs urgent investment!

[@BelfastBandit]

I think your wrong. It''s their choice to keep them walls dividing them up as they still despite each other... How on earth you think those people deserve better when they clearly don't want them walls down? If they only moved far away from those walls into mixed ethnically and religious and nationality wise neighbourhood where they would noticed they are the only ones who got problem with people.. they would most likely open the eyes, and focus on their lives and future, instead of living in the past. Just my opinion..I might be wrong.

[@colmm5022]

@@BelfastBandit you are very wrong, both sides were condemned to failure by erecting these walls, after 50 years of the little protection in which they serve it's hard for any locals to think they may be better off without them overnight, over the fear of being attacked regularly , there is much more to the problem than meets the eye

[@johanakermyr1437]

@@colmm5022 You are spot on. This is a very delicate time in Northern Ireland/the north. Brexit matters hasn't exactly helped the two communities come any closer. What would happen if these walls were removed tomorrow, civil war?

[@g-dcomplex1609]

thank you for making this daring video, now i know where certain murals reside exactly, something i was not fully educated on ☺

[@nakedireland]

Glad I could help.

[@Alex-bf7mc]

This was so interesting, thank you

[@nakedireland]

Ah thanks Alex, please do check out some of the other Naked Ireland videos too.

[@matthewgabriel9335]

Just subscribed from sunny Phoenix Arizona. Visited and signed peace wall with my wife and 6 year old son in 2015.

[@nakedireland]

Thanks Matthew - for signing the peace wall and subscribing here - two great acts of compassion!

[@tommccrisken5319]

I grew up in the shadow of the wall went to school at st galls and our playground was right at the wall . As a kid we throw stones at each other even before there was a wall , I had shots fired at me and witnessed two murders. At the same time I had a fantastic childhood, exciting, sometimes dangerous but also fun with some great characters.

[@nakedireland]

Thanks Tom, a bit of excitement is good when your growing up, though maybe less danger?

[@henrysevern]

A good video, love the back ground music.

[@nakedireland]

Many thanks Henry!

[@maureentrant5588]

This is very informative. Thank you. I’m coming to Northern Ireland for the first time from May 6-May 26,2023. I will be taking a black taxi tour of these areas.I will be based in Ballycastle , driving myself around, so I really appreciate your videos which help me to plan what sites I wish to see. Cheers

[@nakedireland]

Yes Maureen, this is obviously the darker side of tourism here, but very interesting nonetheless. While you’re down in Belfast pay a visit to the Crown Bar in Great Victoria Street. It’s a very beautiful Victorian gin palace. Right across the street from it is the infamous Europa Hotel, the most bombed hotel in Europe.

[@SuperEthan154]

Nice video! I drive past the wall everyday on my way to school!

[@nakedireland]

Thank you Ethan, I’m glad you enjoyed it.

[@LurganGoon91]

Great video 👍🏻

[@nakedireland]

Thanks a lot, I appreciate that!

[@the_Dogpacker]

This is awesome. Last time I was in Belfast I was so young I can't even remember. Would love to go bikepack NI someday.

[@nakedireland]

You’d be very welcome!

[@bridgetown45]

Having served on the Peace Line over 50 years ago, it is not the wall which I remember foremost, but the many kind people on both sides of the fence who befriended me, from the kids in the Clonard to the families in North Howard Street. Many of their names are still etched in my memory.

[@nakedireland]

That’s great to hear. It’s not often the peace wall brings back pleasant memories!

[@Ystadcop]

Chilling. Happily, no paddywhackery, and great music.

[@nakedireland]

It's a paddywhackery free zone Ystadcop! Thanks for your support.

[@Ystadcop]

@@nakedireland Subscribing now.

[@TheMeconiumMan]

I've made videos about it and still can't believe it. Love the jazz 😁

Got a subscriber 😀 great content!

[@nakedireland]

Big thanks Anderson!

[@garyb5998]

Definitely need to do a similar “Peace Wall " history of North Belfast. In my area Greencastle the most recent gates and wall are only around 15 years old

[@nakedireland]

Not a bad idea Gary, I might just do that, though I'm trying not to focus too much on Troubles related stuff. I like the promoting the positive as much as possible. But maybe I'll give that a go.

[@garyb5998]

@@nakedireland agreed 🤝 👍.. We need to not let the Dark Waters of the Past stop us Swimming to the Shores of the Future but we need to acknowledge and understand the stormy waters so we can appreciate the calm waters and safe harbours. If you you need a local sherpa on your North Belfast expedition I'll be happy to help 👍

[@nakedireland]

Cheers Gary, that’s good of you.

[@kevindelivers]

Would be great if you could do a video in the Short Strand area

[@nakedireland]

That’s a possibility Kevin. It’s a smaller interface there, but interesting none the less.

[@louiseburke8012]

Plastic paddy here - British born and raised with an Irish Da. I spent a lot of my summer holidays in Ireland and was schooled there for a while during UK recessions. From what I recall, the UK doesn't want NI, nor does Ireland. It literally is its own enclave, although I think the republicans have the better chances. Union/loyalists will be in for a shock if they boat over to Scotland, and England, there'd be less culture shock if they just swallowed their pride and tolerated the tri-colour flag. To this day it baffles me. Its like me saying I am making an outpost off Addis Ababa in Worcestershire

[@nakedireland]

Thanks for your comment Louise. Please check out some of the other videos too if you get a chance.

[@andynixon2820]

The UK and the Irish republic have each changed so much in the last 50 years as to be socially and economically new countries - and close too as we're essentially all family. So to have the people in this part of our islands so absolutely polarised is tragic and out of synch with how the rest of us live . I know - it's historic and massively complicated so I'm not judging , just hoping they can find trust and peace .

[@barryb90]

I've noticed the last 2 decades massive shift the British and Irish general populations are more in sync on sociology-economic issues than the Unionists and staunch loyalists in Northern Ireland as they're ever increasingly being ostracized by the British govt while the British public's attitude is overwhelmingly indifferent towards Northern Ireland.

[@MrAdriancooke]

I don't know about The Irish Republic but as far as I am concerned the UK has not changed for the better

[@RobertK1993]

Nice video.

[@nakedireland]

Thanks Robert, I appreciate that.

[@ronallen1562]

the good thing about the wall is before covid hundreds would come by coach, bus and black taxis each day as tourists, and they bring money to the local economy. jobs were created to make the local area pretty, with nice grass areas, trees, and hedges. so not all bad.

[@binflynn1]

The music is a bit mad lol but again nice content I am from Belfast nothing new to me but I know one thing , they’ll never take them down cheers love your channel 👏

[@nakedireland]

Thanks Paul. Yes, the music is a bit mad, but then the whole scenario is a bit mad!!

[@kiri101]

Wonderful scoring with that dissonance, and the audio levels are well balanced. It seemed (from the other side of the Irish sea) that democratic reunification was possible before Brexit, or possibly even in spite of it. My old dad ran away as a boy from the sectarianism long before the modern troubles began.

[@nakedireland]

Many thanks on your kind comments Kiri on the music. It’s my own composition. People hate it or love it with the same intensity! I’m so glad you fall into the latter category. The democratic future of N. Ireland is still a bit unknown, but we have important elections coming up which could shake things up a bit.

[@johncheevers2050]

Born in north belfast in 63 ( lower oldpark ) peace wall where I grew up now living in USA, have not been back since 1994 will never return.

[@nakedireland]

Hi John, I know the Oldpark - used to babysit there with my girlfriend (wife now) in the early 80s. Things have changed in Belfast dramatically since you left in the 90s. I realise my Peace Wall film shows the darker side of what goes on here (a side people should prob know about), but there’s a lot of positive stuff in the city now too. You can see some of it in my other videos - city hall, botanic gardens, titanic museum etc etc. I hope you’ll at least come back for a visit.

[@johncheevers2050]

@@nakedireland left in 86 when manor street erupted seen it coming a year before it happened was being pressured to join the U.D.A Johnny Adair used to call me a yellow bastard cause I wouldn't fight the fenians

[@nakedireland]

Priceless anecdote - dark times indeed, good that you got away and I hope life’s good.

[@davidmcknlght2700]

Born on Westland Rd in 63,can't say I blame anyone for blowing town, but Uncle Sam has trouble in his back yard too. Good and bad everywhere I guess.

[@nakedireland]

Yes I see that too David. It’s strange that you and John were both born in 63, and so was I!

[@JungleUTFR]

I can remember as a child ( about 4 years old ) my grandmother walking me through the waste land in the Cupar street area when the IRA opened fire on an Army foot patrol, a brave soldier pushed my Granny and me to the ground and lay over the top of us as the shots rang out !! I will never forget that incident or how someone could have so much hate for someone as to try to kill them. Thank you to that soldier the unsung hero 🙏❤

[@nakedireland]

Thanks for sharing that. And thanks for watching.

[@JungleUTFR]

Thank you for the video, it was so well filmed and narrated 👍👏

[@nakedireland]

⁠So glad you liked it. Hopefully there are some other Naked Ireland videos out there that you can enjoy too!

[@malsmith1618]

I moved into clonard 1982 before the wall was there our back wall about 18 feet high was the peace line safe to say we never had back windows for very long

[@nakedireland]

Thanks for your anecdote Mal. You might be interested in my video of Clonard Monastery/church, which should go up on KZbin in the weeks ahead?

[@EuropeanMedia]

Looks bad yet Belfast is the most interesting place in Europe. As a visitor they treat you very well!

[@nakedireland]

I’m happy about that : )

[@paulkenneally789]

. I am older than the walls !! Never seen any comprehensive footage of the so called “Peace walls “. Incredible,didn’t know that such walls existed in other NI towns.

[@nakedireland]

There’s a few more of these walls dividing other communities in Belfast too Paul, though much smaller.

[@paulkenneally789]

@@nakedireland Really appreciate your reply. I am aware of lots of NI issues,but this is on a whole new level. Seen lots of grainy footage of people packing up and leaving districts and you may be aware of the first Dexys midnight runners album, cover... Catholics fleeing their homes. Best wishes and keep up the stunning work and let’s hope for a better future.

[@nakedireland]

Hi Paul, I am aware of that album, you’re obviously of a similar vintage to me! Yes, I’m pretty sure it was of a refuge in Ardoyne (another troubled part of the city, not covered here). I’m sure someone will correct me if I’m wrong about that.

[@paulkenneally789]

@@nakedireland All the best,for now,keep up the good work.

[@paddycaldwell3112]

This video n the music with it make the place look creepy like a ghost town

[@nakedireland]

The wall is a bit creepy though?

[@lyndawilson3297]

I'm shocked, I've always known there has been a wall of some kind, but I never knew IT was so long and so high, that looks higher than prison walls, my God, this hatred has been going on for far too long

[@colmm5022]

the hatred was created through the partition of this beautiful country nearly 100 years ago

[@Maxwell3773.]

@@colmm5022 pretty sure hatred has been going on for longer than that, 1641 springs to mind.

[@chrismullan7191]

There is 86 peace walls in Belfast.

[@jimmycburfield5997]

IMAGINE indeed!

[@BabulAli]

I visited Falls road but I didn't make it to the Peace Walls. I didn't like the vibe so I got out of there as soon as possible. I did manage to see the Rememberance Garden.

[@nakedireland]

I’m not surprised you found it an uneasy place to visit Babul, it’s not really a ‘tourist attraction’ as you’ve seen. There are sections of wall that are more accessible than others. There’s a large section along Cupar Way (which I show in the 2nd Peace wall video I made) where tourists tend to sign their names. Maybe you should check that out and if you return you could visit at that point?

[@BabulAli]

@@nakedireland I'll keep this in mind, the next time I visit Belfast. Thanks for the info and great work with the video!

[@nakedireland]

Many thanks and a peaceful new year to you.

[@johnhumphreys4923]

As per usual great pics, editing, music and commentary. However know Belfast well and not sure about the dates the peace walls were built, as so important facts are correct otherwise will undermine the VIDEO. Was a student in Belfast for 4 years from 1975 and for several summer seasons did security work with securicor as a dog handler in buildings all over west Belfast. Travelling from the university area through the Shankill road, the Falls Road into Ballymurphy, Ardoyne and all over west Belfast. This at the height of the troubles with the hunger strikes going on, I have no recollection of any peace walls stopping me getting to work. More like burning buses or barricades on streets. Not sure you have the correct dates on the erection of the peace walls, as perhaps grew up over a much longer period of time. Perhaps reason walls are still up is Ulster has a No Surrender Policy to CHANGE from people. Nothing changes.

[@nakedireland]

Hi John, thanks for your comment. Peace walls would certainly have been in place in west Belfast during the period that you lived in the city as a student. The walls went up in stages (as required due to the unrest at the time) and changed in height, structure and appearance as The Troubles persisted. Therefore, the divisions of communities during the mid 70s, while you were here, may have looked a bit different from the existing walls today (which, as I mention in the video, now have infrastructure built around them to accommodate them - roads and housing etc). The catalyst for some of the walls was of course was incidences such as the burning of houses in Bombay Street in 1969 (one example). It was from this point that the communities in west Belfast came to be separated with physical ‘peace’ lines. I myself have lived in Belfast all my life and all through the period of the troubles.

[@user-tt6wd4jm8b]

I lived in Durncairn Gardens Lots of conflict left to right side of the roads. Here was the peace wall too. When they asked me "are you catholic or protestant- I always answered " I am protelic or cathostant- what do you want" They left me alone after that

[@nakedireland]

Good approach! Thanks for watching.

[@eugenekearney4761]

Sad. So sad. God knows when they'll no longer be needed.

[@nakedireland]

It will happen at some point. These things can't be rushed.

[@kevinhickman8405]

Belfast is so depressing due to this. It's very telling that the peoplein these run-down estates can't live next to one another without 20-foot high barriers to separate them, yet travel to a middle class part of Belfast and there's no barriers - people live side by side. Lack of education and the fostering of intolerance and hatred from one generation to the next is undoubtedly a major cause of conflict that has never faded away. Build one big wall around the lot of them and let them duke it out to the death. They are an embarrassment to both communities they claim to be a part of.

[@MrAdriancooke]

Poverty inflames almost all problems I think

[@annrobinson7766]

I live near it and use it as a short cut across town. It is ugly though . Reminds me of the Berlin Wall which I visited in my twenties. The Berlin Wall had three layers. These walls, we believe, are part of a greater experiment. To gauge long term effects of walling people in, in case it’s needed someday. PS I used to work in that Townsend church.

[@nakedireland]

Thanks Ann, nice to pick up on your local knowledge.

[@annrobinson7766]

@@nakedireland I enjoyed the video. I’ll have a look for some more. That wee bit of local history was interesting. I’m going to check out that street at Clonard that you mentioned.

[@nakedireland]

Thanks Ann - Bombay street.

[@PFWoody488]

Sad and depressing. I feel like I won the lottery being born in a land of peace and plenty. The biggest gripe I have against my neighbors is when one of their dogs craps on my lawn. Thanks for the perspective.

[@nakedireland]

Thanks for your comment PF Woody.

[@1916jamesconnolly]

Just do like Jim Carey in " Me, Myself and Irene" casually stroll over pull your trousers down and crap on their lawn. 💩

[@patcom1013]

The video acknowledges the two 'sympathies', ie. Israelis and Palestinians, held by the two communities in NI. Ironically, the mid-East situation also features separating walls though on a much larger scale. Just an observation, really.

[@nakedireland]

Yes Pat, communities with walls sympathising with communities with walls. That makes sense I guess, though it’s desperately sad too.

[@BabulAli]

It's ironic how it was the British who were the architects behind the walls in both instances.

[@desleighmadge3146]

I visited from Australia 🇦🇺

[@nakedireland]

Wow, what a journey! Hope you’ll come back some day?

[@retrospective83]

They need pulled down spent my life living in West Belfast and them walls and the segregation between the two community's the reason why some parts of northern Ireland still stuck in the past a handful of small norrowminded people holding the majority back growing up in the 80s and 90s I've seen how far the this country has came being separate just imagine what could have been achieved if they had worked together.

[@Rev.Dr.Vanderbilt4778]

Yes live near larnark way wall. I definitely do not call them "peace walls" lol but they serve a purpose.

[@nakedireland]

Thanks Brendan. And do you see a day when the walls might come down?

[@garydawson3908]

Did the taxi tour very educational 2hrs long

[@nakedireland]

I’ve never done it, but must try it. Thanks Gary for the recommendation.

[@hmkbch]

The Berlin wall had a height of 3.60 m. Part of that wall in Belfast or better the wire fence must be over 12 m. Unbelievable.

[@nakedireland]

It’s a big wall Herbert. I guess the difference is, it’s not to stop people getting over it, it’s more to stop people throwing things over it.

[@fenian123]

Not quite the same

[@harmonizedigital.]

I was there last year. It was actually quite peaceful and safe. Did not see dangerous thugs hanging around like in the USA. The law does a good job there.

[@garyb5998]

The local community morals and ethics keep the areas mostly free free from 2bit Hood's

[@paulkenneally789]

Personally, never been to NI, but have been to Beirut and Jerusalem... and believe me, you can walk down one street and it’s all cappuccinos and sunglasses,the next it’s a riot!! Belfast is no different, especially when football rears it’s ugly side. Stay safe and keep travelling.

[@brendanoprey762]

WHOEVER CHOOSE THAT MUSIC IS TRYING TO REIGNITE THE TROUBLES

[@nakedireland]

I hope not Brendan!

[@fearnothing3798]

I know the schools are seperated but is there any cross community schooling projects like sports teams integrating for matches . I.e Catholic school kids joining the local Protestant school to play Rugby and vise versa for GAA. Integration through schooling seems the only way forward but starting out getting kids to play sports together might be a great way to get to know ones neighbour .

[@nakedireland]

Hi Fear Nothing, actually there are a few integrated schools now and this is likely to increase in the future. Remember that the areas you see in the film are some of the most polarised, there are many areas in Belfast where kids mix all the time (usually more prosperous areas) and things have come a long way since the peace process. Poverty is the real problem.

[@alanparker4845]

Schools are separated in england as well

[@BringbackgAmberleafns]

i went to a integrated school in NI. they aint as integrated as you might think. all depends on their location. if you go to a integrated school but that school is in a area thats 90% protestant or catholic then the integrated school aint integrated at all.

[@michaelchapman3384]

@@BringbackgAmberleafns that's not how integrated schools work. They have a strict policy of 40:40:20 or 45:45:10 - to call themselves integrated.

[@BringbackgAmberleafns]

@@michaelchapman3384 how it is supposed to work in theory perhaps but i went to a integrated school in the early/mid 2000s in holywood just outside of belfast and it must have been 90% protestant/unionist the biggest division in that school was whether you were a fanboy of the uda or uvf if there were any catholics at that school they sure as shit kept quiet about being one

[@matthewnixon9149]

My life 😥

[@harmonizedigital.]

I love the music.

[@nakedireland]

Thank you for that. Not everyone does (see other people’s comments on the music below!)

[@harmonizedigital.]

@@nakedireland yeah. I did. People have no taste. It is much better then the standard docu music and gives meaning to your story.

[@reggriffiths5769]

I have to comment on one phrase by Naked Ireland; but first, my memories: I remember the shootings and bombings; I remember the barricades, I remember the collusion between IRA and UFF (amongst others); I remember the victims, the biased media, the burning buses, the utter carnage and destruction of beautiful buildings, being prevented from going to work, being body-searched at one checkpoint after another; I remember the children who should have been kept at home, but were out at all hours baiting the police and army with stones and petrol bombs; I remember the intimidation prevalent on both sides; I remember the sadness; but most of all I remember the absolute hatred running rampant throughout the Province - a hatred mixed with denial of involvement by politicians and the public alike in Nationalist, Republican and Loyalist communities. Today, NI is bathing in a new era of freedom (arguably for some), but false, for the current face of extremism and violence is only partially hidden, but still active. Despite its plastic facade, Belfast is a bright, new and clean city which, in a moment can and probably will, return to those bad old days, simply because two diametrically opposed societies both want the same thing - a piece of the island that each claims as its own. Naked Ireland makes the comment that both communities "deserve" the peace. In my view, none of those hard-line communities deserve what they've been given. In those areas you highlighted, their new homes - born out of the troubles - have not been maintained as they should, and simply allowed to decay through negligent care by the occupiers. Many of the occupiers don't want to work because the State gives them everything they need, thus allowing them the "freedom" to propagate their hate programmes at will. I remember dirty old Belfast, its very many slums in both Catholic and Protestant areas; I remember the big industries that got no State Aid against the American and rising Asian big businesses that took our Linen Industry, Ship-building Industry, Rope-making Industry, Tobacco Industry, Aircraft Industry and so many other businesses, and left us reeling. Neither the Irish nor British Governments got to grips with any of what was going in NI - to their shame. In my old NI community, we were a well-balanced mix of religions, and our families lived, worked and socialised together at all "class" levels. In quite a few instances they even inter-married. I would go back to live there tomorrow if I could, although age and infirmity has blocked all chance of that; but I'm also fearful that things have not really changed as a whole in the Province, because the hatred has never dissipated.

[@nakedireland]

Dear Reg, thank you so much for taking the trouble to respond in such a detailed and enlightened way to my film. I’m flattered that it provoked such a response and am grateful for your input. We agree, perhaps, to disagree on the bone of contention that you have, but nevertheless I think there’s buckets of truth and wisdom in your reply too. It’s a complicated scenario that you and I have spent our lifetimes considering.

[@reggriffiths5769]

@@nakedireland Thank you for responding - and so quickly! Yes, we all see things differently, and whatever the topic, there will always be bones of contention - everybody in the world has a bias on something, and I am no different. However, I completely understand the basic arguments from both sides and have always tried to think impartially. My only conclusion is that the differences are intractable, and nothing in the world will change that. If the hatred could be dispelled.....but how does one dispel a hatred that has been simmering for more than 400 years! History cannot be changed, and there is no cure for ingrained lack of common sense across the board. When we look at our modern history, we find that bombs and bullets have solved nothing other than many thousands of truly innocent lives lost aor maimed - WW1, WW2, Korea, Vietnam, Afghanistan and the rest - all achieved nothing of worth, for the divisions still continue to some degree.Sadly, the North-South divide in the Irish Isle is no different. People will never give up that which they hold dear.

[@nakedireland]

Yeah we all have our axe to grind, you’re right. But when I was growing up there seemed simply no possible end to the conflict - that was inconceivable then. Now, many years have past and a massively improved situation has developed, one that I never though possible. It’s far from perfect and as the video demonstrates, and we both know, there’s still quite a distance to go. But they say time heals all wounds. New generations emerge with different attitudes to life, softened political views and with the worst conflict only a distant memory.

[@reggriffiths5769]

@@nakedireland I do so hope you are right, but when I see so many videos on YT that do nothing but foment division, I become more and more sceptical and perhaps even cynical. It seems that we welcome (to a degree) people from all over the world to make their homes in GB or Ireland, yet we can't do the same for ourselves! How blindingly stupid is that? I'm an Ulsterman, my father's family were all Catholic Welsh and English, amd my mother's family were mixed Southern Irish, Ulster, and predominately Scot's Protestants. It didn't stop any of us inter-mixing...and getting on with the rest of the mixed religious/political populace. I'm so glad to know that the little town is no different today. Perhaps it's because no-one that we knew in that town was narrow-minded or bogged-down by an ancient past! BTW, it's refreshing to see/hear a video that isn't openly taking a bias, so well done you!

[@nakedireland]

Big thanks again Reg. Really appreciate your comments. I hope you’ll continue to watch my videos. Most of them show the more positive side of this island.

[@raymondwatson4134]

Townsend Street in the Lower Shankill in Belfast in Northern Ireland ....

[@geraldwagner8739]

This is insane. The pictures are very sad and depressing. I was not aware that the „peace walls“ were so extreme. I can’t see any hope for a peaceful future of Northern Ireland. 😔

[@nakedireland]

There’s always hope Gerald. Things have improved enormously from when I was young. Peace must be nurtured.

[@geraldwagner8739]

@@nakedireland I can only tell you what I see and that is shocking.

[@nakedireland]

Yep, I can see how it would be. Thanks for taking the time Gerald. I guess it’s important people see what’s going on.

[@goth_dude6874]

You've no idea, they literally hate each other to death

[@fenian123]

Depressing for sure, but it used to be a lot worse

[@amysmith-nk2wf]

iserved over there in 92 93 part of me is still there

[@gamble845]

What is with the music? 😂

[@colmm5022]

it sounded like a 30s gangster film , I was hoping that nobody would arrive with a tommy gun any second there

[@gamble845]

@@colmm5022 it sounded like the start of a horror movie.

[@nakedireland]

It is a horror movie!

[@joesphbegley3088]

They hate each other for being the wrong kind of Christian!

[@bealfeirste2056]

We hate them for being planter wankers from a foreign land that dont belong in Ireland.

[@geraldwagner8739]

This reminds me of a war zone. I am really glad that I don’t have to live there.

[@nakedireland]

Gerald, there are times when it’s exactly as you’ve described it. Otherwise, people get in with their lives. The communities require more investment, they’ve been ignored for years. Then people wonder why violence erupts!

[@stephensmith4480]

Gerald, I have Been To Belfast. many, many times and stayed in the communities with friends. It`s not as bad as you think, not these days anyway. The vast majority of the people just want to get on with their lives, they are some of the most warm and friendly people you will ever meet. It`s just a shame that the minority, want to live in the past and are not willing to accept compromise. If ever you get the chance to visit, go and see the place, you will be amazed. It`s not like it was.

[@bigdave1955]

Good video but that background music is very irritating 😂

[@nakedireland]

Thanks Big Dave!

[@absolutelywiseman556]

unbelievable GHETTOS....HORROR... :-( [greetings from Poland]

[@ultanbeare]

I do hope these walls of division get removed they only enhance division disrespect to difference .. when in truth more in common .. one day it will happen when new beginnings move on

[@nakedireland]

We all hope they will be removed Ultan, but there’s still some healing to do.

[@naomimarkey-kelly8734]

Depressing place

[@nakedireland]

Only one aspect of a visit to Belfast. Check out some of the other Naked Ireland videos. Lots of positive stuff.

[@naomimarkey-kelly8734]

@@nakedireland yeah wouldnt be going shankill because they killed innocent catholic people shankill butchers

[@paulkennedy667]

Kind of depressing, but it is what it is...As Ronald Reagan said to Mikail Gorbachev..."Tear down these walls"

[@nakedireland]

I’m not sure Ronald Reagan was a fountain of wisdom Paul. I think we’d all like the walls to come down some day - when people feel safe and trust is restored.

[@fenian123]

They are there to kept people separated by and large, individuals will be and one side or another from time to time, there's no watchtowers

[@hughmungus8340]

I pass these peace walls quite a bit and you see often calls for them to be taken down but were unfortunately just not ready, one of the 12th of July Bonfires is on the gated wasteground just a few feet from the biggest wall featured connecting to North Howard St. The 12th of July Bonfire will never drop the sectarian element as it's that deeply ingrained, and a this isn't a Loyalists are to blame post just stating facts as someone who uses that stretch of road alot.

[@nakedireland]

Thanks Hugh Mungus, I appreciate your comment and I agree, it’s hard to see how the executive will make progress in removing any of these walls in the near future! Thanks for your knowledgable contribution.

[@tomipresley6246]

so you saying it not loyalists to blame but you blaming them, wise up trigger

[@hughmungus8340]

@@tomipresley6246 You must be stupid, peace walls are a two way thing and yes both sides have to accept they are the reason they are there.

[@Derek032789]

Peace wall… sounds more like a war wall.

[@nakedireland]

Yes, it depends on your perspective.

[@adriankeys6245]

I can't get my head round why you bled Jazz music over this video................WHY?.........

[@nakedireland]

I guess I probably just don’t know much about music Adrian!

[@adriankeys6245]

@@nakedireland To bleed music over a sensitive video is the ultimate insult............

[@nakedireland]

Well of course it’s never my intention to insult Adrian.

[@eddiestaunton514]

The most beautiful country in the world and ye/we let the Brits build a pile of ugly walls everywhere, i don't know how anyone could live like this, tear down these walls

[@nocturnal1970]

Good video, loved the jazz but such BS about impoverished people living here, such BS, I live here and nobody is living in poverty... Want to see poverty.... Go to Afghanistan, or 1/2 of the world with supposedly nothing and compare... Such BS does my head in and my family have lived in Clonard 100+ years and never felt or were impoverished. As for the peace lines they are needed and this video shows some of the reasons why but this BS poverty reason is not the reason they are required. As for comparisons to the Cold War and Berlin peacelines it is of no comparison as this is a 400+ year old civil war etc. look it up! As for the falling of Belfast Walls it is not going to happen anytime soon, what if a democratic vote delivers Irish unity? Well they will be glad the walls never came down... And on it goes again for the next century.... 😎

[@alwayslearning7672]

Having British Protestants who have been living in NI for 400 years are not the problem. There are plenty of Protestants all over Ireland and now pretty much every other religion too- and sect of -faith, spirituality, LGBTQ community,and over 120 different ethnic groups and nationalities living on the Island who all have the right and freedom to practice their own beliefs. All have their own place and identities and can be respected in a modern 21th century Ireland. The problem is that NI is still being ruled by the British Gov' which is not acceptable and sadly there will always be problems as long as their rule remains. NI people of what ever community should have zero fear of being part of a United Ireland.As an Irishman myself,all will be welcomed. NI people will not have any problems keeping whatever identity they choose.They will not loose their identity. Time to move on,put the past behind and enter into a new globalised modern Europe/World. And set an example,send a message to the middle east and the world that conflicts can be solved peacefully.This in my opinion would be the greatest of all outcomes of a peaceful United Ireland.

[@reggriffiths5769]

.......And there we have the nub of the problem (please allow me to play Devil's Advocate) - you are happy to welcome Protestants into YOUR community, just as long as it's a United Ireland. Presumably those Protestants you refer-to also have a voice, and prefer to have their own community in the north where they've had their roots for more than 400 years; or do you want to kick them out as well? You see, you create a one-sided argument that suits you but necessarily anyone else. Is it so hard to accept tolerance - to live and let live in harmony? Then again, your bigotry and intolerance is all that matters.

[@joemacdonnagh6750]

@@reggriffiths5769 without invasion, ethnic cleansing bigotry and intolerance how could the English/Scots plantationist survive on Irish soil ? , Don't knock it , it has served your people well since your arrival.

[@reggriffiths5769]

@@joemacdonnagh6750 History is history, and no power on earth can change it. The only thing that can change is "attitudes", but in Ireland they don't! The hatred between the two communities is so ingrained, but always comes back to the hatred of the British - or more specifically the English, Isn't it ironic though, that no country in the UK has a particular fondness for the English, but we do seem able to overlook that and work/live in unity. After all, Ireland wasn't the only country that fell to the English, but the only country still living half a millennia in the past. Wrongs cannot be righted, and there comes a point in time when the past - although it should be borne in mind as history - should be relegated to where it belongs, and not protracted through hatred. The negotiating table is where everyone's wishes can be debated, not by ingrained hatred or terrorist activity. Learn to LIVE AND LET LIVE for pity's sake, instead of living in the past.

[@Drifty40]

@@reggriffiths5769 Perfectly put sir ! I've been saying the same thing for years.....theres always been a thinly veiled sectarianism in the many comments by Irish nationalists on social media.

[@U100Maciek]

21st century Europe...Like the Middle East religious abyss...

[@ryanfenning2079]

Sure they all sell gear 2 each other lol

[@kathybutler8383]

The wall is an obscenity

[@nialldoyle3771]

Cool video and informative but that jazz music almost made me stop watching like 3 times 😂😂😂

[@nakedireland]

Thanks for persevering Niall.

[@corkboy4523]

Sad, but I guess that’s the price to pay for the ridiculous decision to partition Ireland.

[@nakedireland]

As you know Cork Boy people are starting to consider the possibility of reunification through democratic means - that’s an argument to be had over the next decade. Thanks for your comment and support.

[@corkboy4523]

@@nakedireland whatever way it goes hopefully peace will prevail in the fine city of Belfast!

[@nakedireland]

I certainly hope that’s the case - we deserve it after so long!

[@davidmcknlght2700]

Southern Ireland has moved forward from a frankly theocratic state, who knows what the future holds but peace is the best path,by far!

[@nakedireland]

Always the best path David, you’re so right.

[@georgebrowne5935]

All these unfortunate People are living in an open Prison whether the realise it or not. The Cost of British Colonialism, that both Communities are still paying for.

[@nakedireland]

Thanks for your comment George.

[@georgebrowne5935]

@nakedireland Great content Channel, especially for those of us that never get the chance to see this part of Ireland. Thanks for sharing.

[@nakedireland]

Many thanks George. I appreciate that!

[@gazzanorth4373]

Keeps the savages away from prods on the shankill....

[@colmm5022]

ppl like you is what is wrong with this piece of land

[@gazzanorth4373]

@@colmm5022 Away dry your eyes ya tramp. No Surrender🇬🇧🇬🇧🇬🇧

[@andykane439]

@@gazzanorth4373 no surrender to who??

[@gazzanorth4373]

@@andykane439 IRA/Sinn Fein vermin

[@tremorist]

Religion, lol.

[@nakedireland]

It'd be funny if it wasn't so serious!

[@superstarshaker7402]

My imaginary friend is better than your imaginary friend 🤦‍♂️

[@markmessiwilliams5578]

I would've enjoyed the video if it wasn't for that horrible background music

[@nakedireland]

That’s a shame you didn’t enjoy it. Maybe try another Naked Ireland video? There’s lots to choose from.