IT SEEMS much of the people in Co Clare may not be from Co Clare at all, according to a new study.
A new Irish DNA Atlas has shown that much of Co Clare’s population actually came from Central Ireland and Connacht.
“County Clare was originally under the rule of the people of Connacht, until being eventually acquired by Munster.
“Our analysis mirrors this history, showing that individuals with recent ancestry from Co Clare are a mixture of genetic groups found both in Munster and in Connacht,” the report reads.
The report also comes with a nifty map, showing exactly where the clusters of Connacht and Central Ireland ancestors can be found.
The results reveal that there is a virtual wall between Munster and Leinster, which could signify a historical rivalry between Munster and Leinster.
The new research shows that Ireland is largely made up of 10 distinct geographical clusters, seven of which are Celtic.
The 12 authors of the report claim the study could help further the study of genetic diseases in Ireland.
“Our work informs on Irish history, and by outlining fine-scale structure across the island, we hope can aid the study of genetic diseases within Ireland, and others populations with Irish ancestry,” the report reads.
Check out the full report here.