ABSTRACT
The chapter argues that current British policy at the cultural level in relation to the North of Ireland involves the equal depoliticisation of nationalism and unionism: 'Unionism is neutered to bright banners, bowler hats and Somme memorials; nationalism is reduced to whistle music, knitted sweaters, stout and turf fires'. The influence of multiculturalism is evident in the extent to which it has colonised discourse on the conflict in Ireland. Although this might seem a plausible argument, at closer inspection it proves inadequate to explain an important element in state cultural policy which derives ultimately from its differential relationship with Irish nationalism on the one hand, and Ulster unionism on the other. Hickman's conclusion relates to state policy towards the Irish in Britain in the last century, the effect of which was 'denationalisation'. She argues that a crucial tool in incorporation was the education system.
