I always find it funny that Ireland is so small, yet everybody is Irish. Them people must be like rabbits. Yet nobody ever claims British, or French decent, or rarely.
No-one can pump them out like the Irish-Catholic. My mother, Ms. McKernan was one of 10. My father, Mr. Downey was one of 11. I have so many cousins it's rediculous.
You have to remember that the nearly 2/3 the population of Ireland left during the potatoe famines. Traditionally, more natives leave Ireland than stay. Until Ireland joined the EU than things turned around, the economy there has turned around(more tech based) and the people are staying in country. Great place to visit if you have the chance!! not to mention great whiskey!!