Ray Hurley
Civil War in Ireland A4 Print
What Ray says about this piece:
There is a civil war amongst the tea-drinkers of Ireland. The two camps have been divided for decades and the mere mention of preference is enough to curdle the atmosphere of even the most civilised tea party.
Barry’s Tea vs Lyon’s Tea at its very core is a Munster versus Leinster issue. Despite these provinces being able to set aside their respective differences in rugby, to represent Ireland, the tea question remains a contentious topic.
I myself am a victim of this conflict. Born in Cork, we were raised on Barry’s Tea. My parents shielded my siblings and I from any mention of the conflict. As I grew older I naturally had questions. One day my parents sat me down to give me “the talk”. “Look Ray, you are old enough to know the truth”, my father began. “There is another tea Ray – it’s called Lyons”, my mother blurted out. I was shocked. I immediately began to question EVERYTHING in my mind. Had I been living a lie for my then eight years of life?
My mother and father were quite liberal people and explained to me that Lyon’s Tea drinkers were no better or worse people, but strongly advised me to keep my tea preferences to myself as everyone had the right to choose what tea they drank.
Fast forward to 2011, I met Lisa – my partner and mother of my child. My mother had passed away before I had met Lisa and my family were delighted that I found someone who made me happy. However, they weren’t aware that Lisa was a Lyon’s Tea drinker.
Lisa and I were two star crossed lovers from different sides of the conflict. Such was our devotion to each other, we both decided to make the ultimate sacrifice to maintain our burgoening union. We each took an oath to drink Barry’s in Cork with my family and Lyons in Meath with hers. This wouldn’t be easy.
I still remember the day I took my first sip of Lyons Tea. I felt that I was betraying my heritage and doubted whether I could live this lie, but we both endured for the sake of our relationship. After months of living double lives – the truth finally came out. In a moment of madness Lisa had asked where the Lyons tea bags were to my father. The veil had slipped and we had been outed.
After the initial shock of having a mixed tea relationship in both families, over time we settled our differences. In 2016 our daughter Nia was the first child I know of to be born into a Barry and Lyons family.
If we can peacefully co-exist, then Barry’s and Lyon’s need to put down the swords, have a cuppa and talk things out. ☕️
A4 Print (no frame)
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If you're not completely happy with the product, or you ordered an incorrect item, you can return your order to Red Earth for a full refund (Excluding the cost of delivery) Refunds can only be made in the original tender of purchase. Online refunds will be processed to the original payment card or type. We are happy to refund your item provided that the item is fit to sell on; (Packaging clean, untorn, inside packaging intact) within 14 days. Pease note we will not carry the cost of a returned item that must be paid by you, the customer. When sending an item back due to change of mind please retain proof of tracking. We recommend you use a postal service that insures you for the value of the goods you are returning. Please note all returns are your responsibility until they reach us.
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If an item arrives damaged or broken all breakages on receipt must be notified to Red Earth within 24 hours of receipt. This can be done by email only (sales@redearthireland.com) We will then speak to you across the phone and resolve the issue as quickly as we can. Please note a number of Red Earth items are hand finished and may have slight paint/finish variations on each item. Therefore it’s good to note no piece is the exact same and may vary.
RETURNS & REFUNDS RELATING TO JEWELLERY.
Please note due to hygiene reasons we do not accept refunds or returns on earrings.
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Red Earth have a policy of no returns or exchange on sale items in our physical store. This will not affect your statutory rights.
EXCHANGE OF SPECIAL INSTRUCTION GOODS
We do not offer refunds for personalised goods (painted or altered, re-upholstered at customer request) this includes on base mounted items and engraving.
REFUND
In the event of a refund the full payment for goods will be returned to the customer no longer than 30 days from original transaction either by Paypal or Credit Card.
RETURNS ADDRESS
Online Returns, Red Earth Lifestyle Store, Mullingar Business Park, Mullingar, Co Westmeath Ireland N91 AD77.
By paying for goods from Red Earth then you agree to all terms and conditions and returns policies set out By Red Earth.
None of the above affects your statutory rights.
For further information please email us at: sales@redearthireland.com
By paying for goods from Red Earth then you agree to all terms and conditions and returns policies set out By Red Earth.
None of the above affects your statutory rights.
RETURNS & REFUNDS RELATING TO CHANGE OF MIND
If you're not completely happy with the product, or you ordered an incorrect item, you can return your order to Red Earth for a full refund (Excluding the cost of delivery) Refunds can only be made in the original tender of purchase. Online refunds will be processed to the original payment card or type. We are happy to refund your item provided that the item is fit to sell on; (Packaging clean, untorn, inside packaging intact) within 14 days. Pease note we will not carry the cost of a returned item that must be paid by you, the customer. When sending an item back due to change of mind please retain proof of tracking. We recommend you use a postal service that insures you for the value of the goods you are returning. Please note all returns are your responsibility until they reach us.
RETURNS & REFUNDS RELATING TO DAMAGED ITEMS OR DEFECTS
If an item arrives damaged or broken all breakages on receipt must be notified to Red Earth within 24 hours of receipt. This can be done by email only (sales@redearthireland.com) We will then speak to you across the phone and resolve the issue as quickly as we can. Please note a number of Red Earth items are hand finished and may have slight paint/finish variations on each item. Therefore it’s good to note no piece is the exact same and may vary.
RETURNS & REFUNDS RELATING TO JEWELLERY.
Please note due to hygiene reasons we do not accept refunds or returns on earrings.
RETURNS & EXCHANGE ON SALES ITEMS IN STORE NOT ONLINE
Red Earth have a policy of no returns or exchange on sale items in our physical store. This will not affect your statutory rights.
EXCHANGE OF SPECIAL INSTRUCTION GOODS
We do not offer refunds for personalised goods (painted or altered, re-upholstered at customer request) this includes on base mounted items and engraving.
REFUND
In the event of a refund the full payment for goods will be returned to the customer no longer than 30 days from original transaction either by Paypal or Credit Card.
RETURNS ADDRESS
Online Returns, Red Earth Lifestyle Store, Mullingar Business Park, Mullingar, Co Westmeath Ireland N91 AD77.
By paying for goods from Red Earth then you agree to all terms and conditions and returns policies set out By Red Earth.
None of the above affects your statutory rights.
For further information please email us at: sales@redearthireland.com
By paying for goods from Red Earth then you agree to all terms and conditions and returns policies set out By Red Earth.
None of the above affects your statutory rights.
Welcome to Red Earth, where great food, unique shopping, and warm Irish hospitality come together under one roof. Located in Mullingar, Co. Westmeath, we are proud to be both a lifestyle store and a restaurant, offering our customers a truly one-of-a-kind experience.
Our Story
Red Earth was created with a simple vision: to bring together the things we love most — delicious food, stylish living, and thoughtful gifting. Since opening our doors in 2011, we’ve become a destination for locals and visitors alike, offering everything from hearty breakfasts and relaxed lunches to beautiful homeware, jewellery, and fashion.
The Red Earth Restaurant
Our award-winning restaurant is at the heart of what we do. Open seven days a week, we serve a wide range of freshly prepared dishes, barista-made coffee, and homemade desserts. Whether you’re joining us for a family meal, catching up with friends, or enjoying a quiet moment to yourself, we believe in making every visit special. With a focus on quality ingredients and a warm, welcoming atmosphere, dining at Red Earth is about more than just food — it’s about experience.
The Lifestyle Store
Step into our lifestyle store and you’ll discover a carefully curated selection of Irish and international brands, perfect for gifting or treating yourself. From Homeware to Kids Play, Quirky Art and Jewellery, we stock products that are stylish, practical, and a joy to own. We take pride in offering pieces that make life brighter, whether it’s a small gift for someone special or a new addition to your home.
Our Values
At Red Earth, we value quality, creativity, and community. We’re passionate about supporting Irish brands and designers, as well as bringing the best of international design to Ireland. Above all, we’re about people — creating a space where everyone feels welcome, inspired, and at home.
Visit Us in Mullingar
Conveniently located just off the N4, Red Earth is the perfect place to stop, shop, and dine. With free parking, easy access, and a welcoming team ready to greet you, we invite you to experience all that Red Earth has to offer.
We look forward to welcoming you soon!