Ireland Flag

Green stands for the indigenous Gaelic tradition and nationalist heritage, while orange represents the Protestant community and its historical ties to William of Orange. The white central band symbolizes peace and hope between these two traditions, expressing Ireland’s journey toward reconciliation and coexistence.

The tricolour was first raised by Thomas Francis Meagher in 1848 during a revolutionary movement calling for independence, inspired by the French model. Though initially unpopular, it reemerged during the 1916 Easter Rising and was adopted as Ireland’s provisional flag in 1919 during the War of Independence. It was later officially enshrined in the 1937 Constitution as the national flag, marking its transition from a rebel banner to a symbol of statehood.

Three vertical bands of green (hoist), white, and orange, each of equal width, in a 1:2 ratio. The flag’s clean geometry echoes ideals of equality and balance. Specific shades are defined in government standards to maintain visual consistency across official, military, and maritime contexts.

Irish flag protocol mandates respectful handling: flags must be flown from sunrise to sunset, never touch the ground, and be clean and complete at all times. They are lowered in mourning, such as on National Protestant Day or during tragedies, and raised at half-mast. Official Flag Day ceremonies occur on St. Patrick’s Day (17 March), and public buildings, schools, and private citizens display the flag annually.