Memorandum from Frederick H. Boland to all Irish Diplomatic Missions

Some of the Missions have asked for information as to the policy with regard to the definition of 'Ireland' in statistical publications issued by foreign countries or by international organisations. As you know, our own practice is to use the formula 'Ireland (exclusive of the Six North-Eastern Counties)'. This has a very definite propaganda value in regard to Partition and, for that reason, it is desired that the Missions should, as opportunity offers, suggest its use to the compilers of foreign statistical publications. It is appreciated, however, that objections may be made to this formula on the ground that it is too clumsy or obscure. In that case, we feel that the best compromise is 'IRELAND (Éire)'. This is considered preferable to either 'Ireland (excluding Northern Ireland)' or 'Ireland (territory formerly known as the Irish Free State)'.

The policy, therefore, is to suggest 'Ireland (exclusive of the Six North-Eastern Counties)', but to accept 'IRELAND (Éire)'.