Just in case Thork hasn't run away from this thread, I'd also like to point out that Ireland isn't unique in the idea of a cultural and national identity not being limited to one particular ethnic group or political entity. I doubt you'd say that Hadrian's Wall shouldn't be considered a British landmark because it was built by the Romans, nor the White Tower because it was built by the Normans. Or just look at the body of legend surrounding King Arthur - it's hard to think of anything more quintessentially British than that, and yet it's known to be Celtic in origin.