The People’s Flag: rugby star Adam Byrne on what the tricolour means to him

Adam Byrne, Thomas F Meagher Foundation ambassador and former professional rugby player – Ireland, Leinster and Connacht.

Adam Byrne, Thomas F Meagher Foundation ambassador and former professional rugby player – Ireland, Leinster and Connacht.

1 What does the Irish flag symbolise to you personally, and how does it reflect Irish identity?

For me it is a powerful symbol for my home. It always reminds me that Ireland is the place I represent and I want to do the country proud any chance I get, from a chat to a tourist to playing a rugby game when I was younger.

2 Can you share a moment or memory when the Irish flag had a particularly powerful meaning for you?

I remember I played for my country for the first time at under 18’s in Germany and we had players from all over Ireland. We had the flag hung up in the changing rooms and singing the anthem looking at the flag was a moment I won’t forget. I remember the immense privilege I felt to represent my country.

3 In your opinion, what special significance does the green, white, and orange colours hold in the context of Irish history and culture?

I remember we learned about the particular meaning of each colour in school, but being honest all that stuck with me was that it symbolises unity. To me Ireland will always be a leading country that punches above its weight and every country’s flag is its identity, it’s a powerful symbol.

4 How do you believe the Irish flag can continue to unite and inspire people in modern times?

I think it’s something we should be proud of. I travel a lot and people love the Irish. I think that should be something we are proud of and continue to do Ireland proud any chance we get. I think the flag is timeless, it carries the same weight regardless and just becomes more prominent at certain times, but always the same importance and I hope that continues.

5 Do you have any personal stories or anecdotes involving the Irish flag?

Not really, just always being super proud to wear the green and have the flag around any of the Irish teams I played with.

6 If you could add one more element to the Irish flag to represent modern Ireland, what would it be and why?

I don’t think I could change it. It’s all I know and I think for each person it means something else that they have grown up with. I like the saying don’t change what’s not broken!