Flags in Ireland

In both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, flags have their own significance and meaning. To help you find your way around, here's a quick overview of the different Irish flags used on a daily basis, whether to represent the Irish Republic, Northern Ireland or the Irish Provinces…
<h2>Flags of the Republic of Ireland</h2>
<h3>Flags of the Republic of Ireland</h3>
In the Republic of Ireland, the green, white and orange tricolor flag is most often seen, representing the Irish state, with the exception of Northern Ireland.

Created by the Young Ireland Movement, it features green (Gaels), white (Peace) and orange (Orangemen).

The presidential banner is also used for official political events.

It's especially popular on St. Patrick's Day, when the Irish parade their flags to show their pride in being Irish!
<h2>Northern Ireland flags</h2>
<h3>Union Jack</h3>
The Union Jack is the flag of the United Kingdom. It's a superimposition of the flags of England, Scotland and the St. Patrick's Flag representing Ireland.
<h3>Saint Patrick's flag (or Saint Patrick's Cross)</h3>
The Saint Patrick Flag symbolizes Saint Patrick, patron saint of the Irish. It is mainly used by Unionists.
<h3>The Sunburst Flag</h3>
The Sunburst Flag is used by Nationalists and Republicans. It depicts a sun on a blue background.
<h3>Starry Plough</h3>
The Starry Plough is used to represent nationalists, republicans and socialists.
<h2>Flags of the Provinces of Ireland</h2>
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<th>Description</th>
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<h3>Connacht flag</h3>
The Connacht flag represents the Irish counties of the central-western part of the Republic of Ireland. It represents an eagle and a hand armed with a sword.</td>
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<h3>Leinster flag</h3>
The Leinster flag represents the eastern counties of the Republic of Ireland. It features Brian Boru's Harp on a dark green background.</td>
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<h3>Mide flag</h3>
The Flag of Mide refers to an ancient Irish province comprising the counties of Meath and Westmeath. It is symbolized by a king seated on his throne, against a light blue background.</td>
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<h3>Munster flag</h3>
The Munster flag represents the counties of south-west Ireland. It features 3 crowns on a blue background.</td>
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<h3>Ulster flag</h3>
The Ulster Flag represents the 6 counties of Northern Ireland. It represents the cross of Saint George and the hand of O'Neill (a family once very influential in the province).</td>
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