Originally Posted by clareview
Several posts back BALHR said he regards Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland as "Ireland". He then asks does anybody disagree. I certainly do as factually he is wrong. The Republic of Ireland is a country in its own right. Northern Ireland is part of the United Kingdon of Great Britian and Northern Ireland so it cannot be acurately referred to as Ireland.
He's not really as Ireland is both an island and a state. So saying Northern Ireland is part of Ireland is technically correct.
Also, the Republic of Ireland doesn't exist. The name of this country is Ireland. Though you'd be forgiven for thinking otherwise given the ignorance of the BBC who refuse to refer to this country by it's official and internationally recognised name.
I agree with Aerlingus231 though, if people want to refer to the whole island just say 'island of Ireland' to avoid any confusion/offence.