Ray Hurley
Civil War in Ireland A5 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. ☕️
A5 Print (no frame)
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We will notify you once we’ve received and inspected your return, and let you know if the refund was approved or not. If approved, you’ll be automatically refunded on your original payment method within 10 business days. Please remember it can take some time for your bank or credit card company to process and post the refund too.
If more than 15 business days have passed since we’ve approved your return, please contact us at sales@redearthireland.com.
We have a 14-day return policy, which means you have 14 days after receiving your item to request a return.
To be eligible for a return, your item must be in the same condition that you received it, unworn or unused, with tags, and in its original packaging. You’ll also need the receipt or proof of purchase.
To start a return, you can contact us at sales@redearthireland.com. Please note that returns will need to be sent to the following address: [INSERT RETURN ADDRESS]
If your return is accepted, we’ll send you a return shipping label, as well as instructions on how and where to send your package. Items sent back to us without first requesting a return will not be accepted.
You can always contact us for any return question at sales@redearthireland.com.
Damages and issues
Please inspect your order upon reception and contact us immediately if the item is defective, damaged or if you receive the wrong item, so that we can evaluate the issue and make it right.
Exceptions / non-returnable items
Certain types of items cannot be returned, like perishable goods (such as food, flowers, or plants), custom products (such as special orders or personalized items), and personal care goods (such as beauty products). We also do not accept returns for hazardous materials, flammable liquids, or gases. Please get in touch if you have questions or concerns about your specific item.
Unfortunately, we cannot accept returns on sale items or gift cards.
Exchanges
The fastest way to ensure you get what you want is to return the item you have, and once the return is accepted, make a separate purchase for the new item.
European Union 14 day cooling off period
Notwithstanding the above, if the merchandise is being shipped into the European Union, you have the right to cancel or return your order within 14 days, for any reason and without a justification. As above, your item must be in the same condition that you received it, unworn or unused, with tags, and in its original packaging. You’ll also need the receipt or proof of purchase.
Refunds
We will notify you once we’ve received and inspected your return, and let you know if the refund was approved or not. If approved, you’ll be automatically refunded on your original payment method within 10 business days. Please remember it can take some time for your bank or credit card company to process and post the refund too.
If more than 15 business days have passed since we’ve approved your return, please contact us at sales@redearthireland.com.
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!