Rocky did the Republican side and Jake did the Loyalist side. Coming from Dublin I have an innate understanding of the nationalist / republican side, but the first-hand accounts from an ex IRA volunteer were to say the least eye-opening. I knew what happened in a dry almost academic sense but had no idea of the stories nor of the effect of the Troubles on both communities. I thoroughly enjoyed Jake's account and he effectively countered the Republican narrative about the troubles. In effect the "troubles" were in large measure a civil war between loyalists and republicans with the loyalists attacking republicans and those perceived as supporting them. Both men said they do not want to see the troubles re-occur, and that was heartening. Both admitted that more innocent people were killed during the troubles than combatants. As an Irish person, I am convinced that we must make an agreed Ireland (whatever that may be) a warm house for the likes of Jake, Rocky and all of us.

Both Eugene and Mark, our two opposing tour guides, did wonderfully well in putting both sides of this terrible divide. They explained some of the history that got them and us to this impasse. They tried and mostly achieved unbiased explanations, creating and describing the two separated areas of Belfast. I would recommend the tour to anyone seeking an insight into “The Troubles”. This story has some time to run before a solution is worked through. Thank you to Eugene and Mark in sharing their stories. Also loved the earpieces.

It was very interesting to learn about the conflict from people who actually lived it. We learned a lot about the complexity of the situation and the consequences of the conflict in the daily life of people in Belfast. We were far from imagining this. However better to have a very good English level as the Irish accent is not easy to understand when you are not used to it.

While viewing the walls the Lord Mayor of Belfast arrived just in time to greet us & unveil a new wall mural. He put the Chain of Office on my husband & we had a grand photo session. Des’s Stories & explanation of Belfast divisions and history were the highlight of our trip. He’s the best. Be sure to request him!

This was an extraordinary experience as the two men from the war torn past guided us through this unique land. Both men spoke with honesty and sincerity. It was moving and powerful. You need to be there with them to begin to grasp the reality of the Troubles.