Born in 1983

The abortion referendum was held — the Eighth Amendment inserted a near-absolute ban on abortion into the constitution. It passed with 67% in favour. The campaign had been bitter and divisive.

Ireland was having a very public argument with itself about what kind of country it was and wanted to be. The contrast between the country's economic struggles and its contentious social debates made for an exhausting national conversation. Unemployment was high.

Emigration was rising. But the Church had won this battle.