Why ireland

Ok, it is 1:00 A.M. here and I should be in bed, but I can't sleep and was pondering this question which I hope someone has a quick answer.

For what reasons did Ireland not become part of the U.K. I understand that the Union Jack Flag is based on the Wales, Scotland and England flags, but why did Ireland's flag never get incorporated.

Sorry Mac, youre wrong about that,

The Union Flag incorporates the white diagonal cross, (or saltire), of St Andrew, for Scotland, on a blue ground, the red cross of St George, for England, on a white ground and the red diagonal cross of St Patrick, for Ireland, on a white ground.

It is in fact the Welsh flag which is not incorporated.

Here's the official explanation
http://www.pm.gov.uk/output/page199.asp

Awwwww, you beat me to it, WG!

Quote (Welsh Guy @ Nov. 12 2002,05:14)

Sorry Mac, youre wrong about that, The Union Flag incorporates the white diagonal cross, (or saltire), of St Andrew, for Scotland, on a blue ground, the red cross of St George, for England, on a white ground and the red diagonal cross of St Patrick, for Ireland, on a white ground. It is in fact the Welsh flag which is not incorporated. Here's the official explanation http://www.pm.gov.uk/output/page199.asp

Ahhhh...so that explains it. Now is Ireland still considered part of the United Kingdom? And if not, should they not remove the red diagonal cross of St Patrick?

NORTHERN Ireland is still part of the UK (or issit part of Great Britain, but not part of the UK?  I always forget!.  This is the six northern counties of the island of Ireland where, predominanly, the Scots-Irish are/were centred.  The rest of the island of Ireland - ie Eire - is of course an independent state.

Hi Catriona, yes you're right "United Kingdom" includes Nothern Ireland "Great Britain" does not.

The official title of the country is "United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northen Ireland".