Ireland Then vs Ireland Now: Progress or Collapse? with Larissa Nolan. Episode 810

Niall Boylan is joined by former journalist Larissa Nolan to ask a question that always sparks strong memories and strong opinions: what was the best time in Ireland to grow up?

Was it the Ireland of the 60s, 70s or 80s, where children played on the streets, neighbours looked out for each other and family and community seemed stronger? Or was that Ireland far tougher than we sometimes remember, with less money, fewer opportunities, harsher schools and a society where many people had little freedom or choice?

Niall and Larissa look back at the Ireland of the past and compare it with the Ireland of today. We may now have more wealth, better education, more technology and greater opportunity, but have we lost something important along the way? Has modern Ireland become more disconnected, more anxious, less safe and less rooted in family and community?

They also discuss politics then and now. Ireland’s politicians of the past were far from perfect. Figures like Charlie Haughey became associated with corruption, while Bertie Ahern faced questions over truth and trust. But many people still feel that, flawed as they were, politicians of that era had a stronger sense of national identity and a greater connection to ordinary people. Is that fair, or is it just nostalgia?

Was Ireland better when we had less but expected less? Were people happier when life was simpler? Or do we look back through rose-tinted glasses and forget the poverty, silence, emigration and lack of opportunity?

Niall and Larissa invite listeners to share their own memories of growing up in Ireland. What era would you choose, taking into account lifestyle, happiness, family, community, crime, safety, education and life in general?

Was Ireland better when you were young, or is the best time to grow up actually now?

And if you have never been on air before but would like to join the conversation, send a WhatsApp saying, “Let me on.”