“The Totality of Relationships”: The Haughey-Thatcher Relationship and the Anglo-Irish Summit Meeting, 8 December 1980

Abstract

This article reveals how both Haughey and Thatcher viewed the conflict in Northern Ireland during the initial years of their respective premierships. The genesis and complicated nature of their relationship are examined. On the subject of Northern Ireland Haughey is revealed as a political opportunist, ruthless, even sly, in his actions. Thatcher, on the other hand, remained cautious when it came to Northern Ireland and in her dealings with Haughey