Marking new wave of emigration with cups of tea

Drinking tea around the world
Drinking tea around the world

The Irish group Róisín O grew up with the mighty roar of the Celtic Tiger as Ireland’s economy went from strength.

For the first time in centuries, it looked as though emigration from Ireland was at last a thing of the past.

Sadly, that wasn’t the case. The recession struck, and once again young Irishmen and women had to seek their fortunes on foreign shores.


Róisín O decided to mark this new wave of emigration by turning to the traditional Irish source of comfort in difficult times, a decent cup of tea. They asked Irish ex-pats all across the world to send in a video of themselves drinking a cuppa.

Set against some great music from the band, the video is surprisingly happy, sad, moving and uplifting, all at the same time.

Why not sit back with your favourite cuppa and take a look.

Tea Song,is taken from Róisín O’s debut album ‘The Secret Life of Blue’.

Róisín explains the thoughts behind the unique video: “It’s crazy to think that, after growing up in the Celtic Tiger, so many of our close friends are now living and working abroad. That’s why we felt this idea for Tea Song could be cool and a nice way to get back in touch with friends and family we haven’t seen in a while, and at the same time get in touch with fans abroad. And also share our mutual love for tea; it brings us closer as a nation!”

Róisín O are encouraging their fans to share the Irish teaspora video with any friends and family they have living abroad.