Declan Lyons
Can a country unite politically if its people remain divided psychologically?
In The Border in Mind, consultant psychiatrist Dr Declan Lyons brings a unique perspective to one of the most important conversations facing Ireland today. Drawing on more than thirty years of clinical experience, alongside a lifelong interest in peace-building and human rights, he explores how history, identity, memory and trauma continue to influence attitudes towards constitutional change.
Rather than approaching the subject through politics alone, Dr Lyons examines the emotional and psychological legacy of conflict, asking how individuals and communities might move beyond inherited divisions towards greater understanding.
Thought-provoking, balanced and deeply compassionate, The Border in Mind challenges readers to consider not simply what the future of Ireland might look like, but how its people can shape that future together.
Whether your views are firmly held or still evolving, this is a book that invites reflection, conversation and hope.
Meet the Author
Declan Lyons is a Dublin-based writer with a deep interest in Irish history, politics and the human stories that shape both. Passionate about encouraging informed debate, he believes understanding the past is essential to shaping the future.
In Border in Mind, Declan explores the changing political landscape of Ireland with insight and compassion, inviting readers from all backgrounds to reflect on the constitutional, cultural and social questions that lie ahead. Rather than telling readers what to think, he challenges them to ask important questions, consider different perspectives and engage with one of the most significant conversations facing Ireland today.
Whether you agree with his conclusions or not, Border in Mind offers a thought-provoking exploration of Ireland’s future that will appeal to anyone with an interest in politics, history and the future of the island.
He lives in Dublin, where he continues to write and research contemporary Irish affairs.
Early Praise for the Border in Mind
‘An important contribution to our unfinished peace process.’
Liz O’Donnell, Former Minister and Good Friday Agreement participant
Useful psychological insights… a staged process for a border poll that avoids division.’
Bertie Ahern, Former Taoiseach, Republic of Ireland
‘Intriguing… with a useful suggestion for a three-stage process for a border poll.’
Professor Brendan Kelly, Trinity College Dublin
‘A significant contribution to the current debate.’
Consultant psychiatrist and former Alliance Party Chair
