The year 1977 in Ireland was marked by significant political shifts in the Republic of Ireland and ongoing civil and political conflict in Northern Ireland. It was a period characterized by economic challenges, legislative changes, and notable cultural developments.
Politics and Government
Republic of Ireland The defining political event of the year was the general election held on June 16. The incumbent National Coalition government, consisting of Fine Gael and the Labour Party under Taoiseach Liam Cosgrave, was defeated by Fianna Fáil. Led by Jack Lynch, Fianna Fáil secured a twenty-seat majority, the largest in the history of the state at that time.
The Fianna Fáil campaign was noted for its populist economic manifesto, which included promises to abolish domestic rates (property taxes) and car tax on small vehicles. Following the election, Jack Lynch was appointed Taoiseach on July 5, beginning his second term in the office. Patrick Hillery served as the President of Ireland throughout the year, having been inaugurated in late 1976.
Northern Ireland In Northern Ireland, the conflict known as the Troubles continued. In May 1977, the Ulster Loyalist Central Coordinating Committee organized a general strike, led by the United Ulster Unionist Council (UUUC) and Ian Paisley. The strike aimed to pressure the British government to increase security measures against the Provisional IRA and to restore a devolved parliament. However, unlike the 1974 strike, it failed to gain universal support and ended after two weeks without achieving its primary objectives.
Law and Society
In the Republic of Ireland, the Employment Equality Act 1977 was passed, which prohibited discrimination in employment on the grounds of sex or marital status. This was a significant step in aligning Irish law with European Economic Community (EEC) standards regarding gender equality.
In Northern Ireland, the European Court of Human Rights continued its deliberations on the "Ireland v. United Kingdom" case regarding the treatment of detainees in 1971. Although the final ruling was delivered in early 1978, the proceedings throughout 1977 maintained international focus on human rights in the region.
Economy
The Irish economy in 1977 faced high inflation and unemployment, common issues across Western Europe during the decade. The incoming Fianna Fáil government implemented the "National Development Plan," which focused on state-led investment and public sector job creation to stimulate growth, though this would later contribute to rising national debt.
Arts and Culture
- Music: The Swarbriggs represented Ireland in the Eurovision Song Contest with the song "It's Nice to Be in Love Again," finishing in third place. In Dublin, the punk rock movement began to take hold, influencing a new generation of musicians. The band U2, then known as "The Hype," performed various early gigs during this year.
- Broadcasting: RTÉ continued its expansion of television and radio services, though the launch of its second television channel (RTÉ 2) would not occur until the following year.
- Literature: Notable literary works were published by Irish authors, reflecting both contemporary social issues and the historical context of the island.
Sports
- Gaelic Games: Dublin won the All-Ireland Senior Football Championship, defeating Armagh in the final. Cork won the All-Ireland Senior Hurling Championship, defeating Wexford.
- Soccer: The Republic of Ireland national team competed in the 1978 FIFA World Cup qualification rounds but failed to qualify for the final tournament.
Births and Deaths
- Births: Notable Irish figures born in 1977 include actor Michael Fassbender (born in Germany to an Irish mother and raised in Kerry), singer Ronan Keating, and footballer Richard Dunne.
- Deaths: Notable deaths included Seán MacEntee, a founding member of Fianna Fáil and a veteran of the 1916 Rising, and F.E. Dixon, a prominent meteorologist and historian.
