Head-to-Head Overview: Qashqai vs Tiguan in Ireland
The Nissan Qashqai and Volkswagen Tiguan really go head-to-head in Ireland’s compact SUV scene. The Qashqai starts at £27,995, while the Tiguan comes in at a higher price point, thanks to that VW badge.
These two chase different types of buyers, each with its own angle and a unique fanbase across Ireland.
Market Positioning and Model Variants
The Nissan Qashqai sits as the practical family choice for Irish SUV shoppers. It comes in six trims, from Visia up to Tekna, and Nissan keeps pricing competitive to tempt folks away from pricier German options.
Volkswagen pitches the Tiguan as a premium SUV. That VW badge? It bumps the price, no question. You’ll usually pay more for the Tiguan, but some buyers just want that extra bit of prestige.
Key Positioning Differences:
| Aspect | Nissan Qashqai | VW Tiguan |
|---|---|---|
| Market Position | Value-focused family SUV | Premium compact SUV |
| Starting Price | €32,000 (ROI) | €38,000+ (ROI) |
| Target Buyer | Practical families | Status-conscious drivers |
The Tiguan rides on VW’s MQB platform, sharing tech with Audi and SEAT. This makes it feel more refined, but also adds a bit of complexity.
Ciaran Connolly, Lead Reviewer at Amazing Cars and Drives, puts it this way: “Irish buyers often choose the Qashqai for its lower insurance groups and better dealer support network, whilst Tiguan buyers prioritise perceived build quality.”
Popularity and Sales Trends
Qashqai leads the pack in Irish compact SUV sales. I keep seeing it pop up in the top 10 models, month after month, on SIMI reports.
The Tiguan doesn’t quite hit those numbers, though it still has strong brand appeal.
Sales Factors:
- Qashqai advantages: Lower pricing, better fuel economy, wider dealer network
- Tiguan strengths: Premium image, higher resale values, German engineering reputation
Irish drivers seem to love the Qashqai’s e-POWER hybrid system for its 54mpg efficiency. Company car drivers also enjoy lower BIK rates compared to the Tiguan’s petrol options.
Up north, the Tiguan does better. Buyers around Belfast seem more willing to pay for the VW’s premium vibe than folks in Dublin or Cork.
When it comes to fleets, the Qashqai usually wins out. Lower lease rates and running costs make it a favourite for corporate buyers. The Tiguan, meanwhile, attracts private buyers looking for that extra badge appeal.
Engine Performance and Power
The Nissan Qashqai and Volkswagen Tiguan take pretty different routes with their engines. The Qashqai’s mild hybrid setup puts out 158 hp, while the Tiguan starts at 150 hp but can go much higher. Both focus on efficiency, not just raw power, but their torque delivery makes them feel quite different behind the wheel.
Horsepower Specifications (150 HP vs 158 HP)
The Qashqai comes in two mild hybrid outputs: 140 hp and 158 hp. The 1.3-litre turbo petrol in the higher trim gives enough punch for most situations.
Personally, I think the 158 hp version really shines on the motorway. You notice the extra power when overtaking or when the car’s packed with people.
The Tiguan starts at 150 hp with its entry petrol engine, but you can get up to 237 hp if you spring for the twin-turbo diesel.
Power Comparison:
- Nissan Qashqai: 140-158 hp (mild hybrid petrol)
- Volkswagen Tiguan: 150-237 hp (petrol and diesel options)
Ciaran Connolly sums it up: “The 158 hp Qashqai provides sufficient power for Irish driving conditions, but buyers wanting stronger acceleration should consider the Tiguan’s higher-output engines.”
Torque Output and Driving Dynamics
Qashqai’s mild hybrid system gives you 270 Nm of torque between 1,800 and 3,750 rpm. That broad torque band means you get nice, punchy acceleration, especially in city traffic.
Peak torque comes in early, so the Qashqai feels more lively than the numbers suggest for everyday driving.
The Tiguan’s torque really depends on which engine you pick. The diesels, in particular, put out over 400 Nm, which is a lot more than the petrols.
Torque Specifications:
- Qashqai Mild Hybrid: 270 Nm (1,800-3,750 rpm)
- Tiguan Range: 250-450+ Nm (depending on engine)
Both cars come with front-wheel drive as standard. The Qashqai has optional all-wheel drive on some trims, but the Tiguan offers its 4Motion AWD across more of the lineup.
Fuel Consumption and Efficiency
Both SUVs stack up well on fuel economy, but the Tiguan gets the edge on the motorway. The Qashqai’s hybrid tech, though, makes it a winner in town. Tank size plays a role in how far you’ll go between fill-ups.
Urban and Combined Fuel Economy
The Tiguan sips less fuel in combined driving. Its 1.5 TSI returns 5.8L/100km combined, while the Qashqai 1.3 DIGT needs 6.7L/100km.
In the city, Tiguan uses 6.5L/100km and Qashqai burns through 7.9L/100km. That means Tiguan drivers save about €15-20 a month on fuel if they do 15,000km a year.
On the motorway, Tiguan still leads with 5.2L/100km against Qashqai’s 5.4L/100km. Both work well for longer commutes, say Dublin to Belfast.
Ciaran Connolly points out, “The fuel consumption difference between these models can save drivers €200-300 annually, which affects your total cost of ownership significantly.”
Fuel Tank Capacity Comparison
The Tiguan packs a 60-litre tank, giving it a 15-20% longer range than the Qashqai’s 55 litres. That’s roughly 1,035km per tank in the Tiguan, compared to 820km in the Qashqai.
If you drive long distances—maybe between cities or up to Northern Ireland—you’ll notice the Tiguan’s bigger tank means fewer stops.
Both cars work with standard petrol pumps across Ireland, so no worries there.
Hybrid and Plug-in Options
Qashqai offers both mild and full hybrid engines, while not every Tiguan variant has a hybrid option. Nissan’s e-POWER acts as a full hybrid, and it’s especially efficient in stop-start city traffic.
Tiguan leans on mild hybrid tech with its TSI engines, and in some markets, you can get a plug-in hybrid with fuel use as low as 0.4L/100km.
Irish buyers can get SEAI grants up to €5,000 for qualifying hybrids. In Northern Ireland, OZEV grants are available, though the amounts differ.
Both Nissan and VW plan to roll out more hybrids, aiming for full hybrid lineups by 2026.
Transmission and Drivetrain Options
Qashqai and Tiguan both offer automatic transmissions, but they use different tech under the bonnet. The Qashqai runs a CVT system, while the Tiguan uses a dual-clutch DSG.
CVT vs Dual-Clutch Systems
Nissan gives the Qashqai a CVT (Continuously Variable Transmission) on most trims. It delivers smooth, gearless acceleration and helps keep fuel use down in town.
Volkswagen fits the Tiguan with a 7-speed DSG dual-clutch. DSG shifts quickly and feels more lively, especially when overtaking or if you want a sporty drive.
Ciaran Connolly notes, “CVT gearboxes typically cost €1,200-1,800 to repair in Ireland, whilst DSG units can reach €2,500-3,500 for major issues.”
For maintenance, CVTs need fluid changes every 60,000 miles. DSGs want oil and filter swaps every 40,000 miles, which runs about €300-400 at Irish garages.
Front-Wheel Drive and All-Wheel Drive Availability
Both SUVs come with front-wheel drive by default. The Tiguan offers 4Motion all-wheel drive on upper trims, which kicks in automatically if the front wheels slip.
Nissan dropped all-wheel drive from the latest Qashqai models. Now it’s front-wheel drive only, which keeps costs and fuel use down.
Most Irish drivers won’t miss AWD, but if you want extra grip on wet or rough roads, Tiguan’s 4Motion adds about €3,000-4,000 to the price.
Insurance costs don’t change much between FWD and AWD. The 4Motion system adds about 100kg to the Tiguan, which knocks fuel economy down a notch.
Interior Space and Comfort
Each SUV brings its own take on cabin comfort. The Tiguan feels more upscale, while the Qashqai puts family practicality front and centre. Tech packages also vary a lot between Irish and Northern Irish specs.
Seating Capacity and Passenger Comfort
The Nissan Qashqai and Volkswagen Tiguan both seat five people in two rows. The Tiguan gives you more headroom and knee space than before, with about 10mm extra headroom and 29mm more knee room.
Front Seat Comfort:
- Qashqai: Zero Gravity seats, solid lumbar support
- Tiguan: Firmer, supportive seats with a premium feel
The Qashqai’s seats feel built for long commutes. In the Tiguan, you get more lateral support, which helps in corners.
Rear Passenger Space: Adults usually get more rear legroom in the Tiguan. The Qashqai’s rear bench works better for kids than for tall adults on long trips.
Boot space does differ, which matters if you’re packing for a family. Both let you split-fold the rear seats for more cargo options.
“Irish families typically need 400+ litres of boot space for weekend trips, and both models deliver this capacity in their standard configurations,” says Ciaran Connolly, Lead Reviewer at Amazing Cars and Drives.
In-Cabin Features and Technology
Technology specs change a bit between Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland, mostly because of trim differences.
Infotainment Systems:
- Qashqai: 12.3-inch touchscreen, Apple CarPlay/Android Auto
- Tiguan: 10-inch display (varies by trim), Volkswagen’s MIB3 system
Climate Control: Higher trims on both offer dual-zone automatic climate control. Most base models in Ireland stick with manual air conditioning.
Interior Storage: The Qashqai’s compact size makes city driving easy and keeps the cabin practical. Storage options like door pockets, cup holders, and centre consoles differ between the two.
Premium Features (Higher Trims):
- Heated seats (standard on most Irish specs)
- Wireless phone charging
- Premium audio
- Ambient lighting
Tech reliability matters for long-term costs, especially once the warranty runs out in Ireland and Northern Ireland.
Boot Space and Storage
Both SUVs work well for Irish families, storage-wise. The Qashqai gives you 504 litres of boot capacity, and the Tiguan squeezes in a bit more trunk space.
The real difference shows up in how each car uses storage flexibility and rear seat versatility.
Boot Capacity and Trunk Dimensions
The Nissan Qashqai offers 504 litres of boot space in its basic setup. That’s more than rivals like the Ford Kuga, which only manages 412 litres.
Volkswagen Tiguan usually gives you 520-615 litres, depending on which version and seat setup you pick. This means you can fit a little more for those weekend getaways.
Both cars have practical loading lips and wide tailgate openings. Qashqai’s boot space can change by trim, so it’s worth checking the details when shopping around Ireland or Northern Ireland.
“Boot capacity often determines family SUV choice, and both models offer enough space for weekly shopping plus holiday luggage,” says Ciaran Connolly, Lead Reviewer at Amazing Cars and Drives.
Flexible Seating and Luggage Solutions
You’ll find 60/40 split-folding rear seats as standard in both SUVs. This setup lets you carry longer items without sacrificing all your passenger space.
The Tiguan usually adds more underfloor storage and extra cubby holes around the cabin. Load-through features come in handy for skis or awkward gear.
Storage highlights include:
- Cup holders front and rear
- Door pockets for bottles and maps
- Centre console compartments with USB charging
- Rear seat pockets on higher trims
Qashqai gives you enough family storage, but the Tiguan’s compartment design feels more thoughtful. Both can handle child seats and pushchairs easily—no drama there for most Irish families.
Ride Quality and Handling
The Qashqai and Tiguan drive differently, and Irish roads really bring this out. The Qashqai leans into comfort, while the Tiguan goes for precision.
Urban Driving Experience
The Qashqai delivers a comfortable ride with low noise levels, making city driving feel quite refined. I’ve noticed it handles Dublin’s rough streets well, with suspension that soaks up bumps better than you’d think.
Tiguan’s ride feels firmer in town. Built on Volkswagen’s MQB platform, it gives you sharper steering and better body control through corners. Of course, this means it’s not quite as smooth on rough surfaces.
Urban Driving Characteristics:
| Feature | Qashqai | Tiguan |
|---|---|---|
| Ride Comfort | Excellent | Good |
| Noise Levels | Very Low | Moderate |
| Steering Feel | Light | Precise |
| Parking Ease | Excellent | Good |
Both cars are compact enough to handle Belfast or Cork city centres without stress. Qashqai’s lighter steering makes tight parking less of a hassle.
Motorway Stability
On the motorway, the Tiguan stands out for high-speed stability. That MQB platform just feels solid, giving you confidence at motorway speeds, which is pretty important for long Irish drives.
Qashqai stays composed at speed but doesn’t feel as planted in crosswinds. Wind noise creeps in above 100km/h, though it’s still fine for most people.
“Irish motorway conditions demand stable handling characteristics, and the Tiguan’s MQB platform delivers better high-speed composure than most rivals in this class,” says Ciaran Connolly, Lead Reviewer at Amazing Cars and Drives.
Motorway Performance Comparison:
- Tiguan: More stable, better in crosswinds, firmer ride
- Qashqai: Comfortable, stable enough, but more wind noise at speed
The Tiguan feels more planted, even though it’s 50kg lighter than before. That’s a bit unexpected, honestly.
Technology and Infotainment
Both Qashqai and Tiguan bring plenty of tech, but the Nissan usually gives you more digital features as standard. Tiguan saves the best toys for higher trims.
Connectivity and Display Features
Nissan outfits the Qashqai with a 12.3-inch digital dashboard on most trims. You get a clear view of speed, fuel, and navigation without glancing away from the road.
The base infotainment screen is 8 inches, but higher trims bump it to 12.3 inches. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are standard, so phone mirroring is easy.
The Volkswagen Tiguan sticks with analogue dials on lower trims. You’ll need to pay extra for the digital cockpit unless you go for a higher spec.
Tiguan starts with an 8-inch screen and upgrades to 10 inches on better versions. The interface responds quickly and supports wireless smartphone connectivity on most trims.
Both systems handle voice commands and over-the-air updates. Qashqai’s interface feels easier to use, but Tiguan lets you dig deeper into customisation if you’re into that.
Driver Assistance Systems
Both models come with lane departure warnings and automatic emergency braking as standard. Qashqai adds ProPilot semi-autonomous driving on mid-range trims and up.
ProPilot manages steering, acceleration, and braking in motorway traffic. It works well on Ireland’s M50 and Northern Ireland’s M1, especially during rush hour.
Tiguan answers with Travel Assist, combining adaptive cruise control with lane-keeping. It works up to 210km/h, though you’ll never legally hit that here.
“The Qashqai’s digital dashboard as standard gives Irish drivers better value than the Tiguan’s optional setup, saving £800-1,200 on equivalent tech levels,” says Ciaran Connolly, Lead Reviewer at Amazing Cars and Drives.
You get parking sensors and reversing cameras on both. Tiguan’s Area View cameras on higher trims show a 360-degree view—handy for tight city parking.
Safety Features
Both Qashqai and Tiguan take safety seriously, which matters for Irish families. Each one earned a five-star Euro NCAP rating and comes loaded with modern safety tech.
Standard and Advanced Safety Equipment
Nissan fits the Qashqai with intelligent emergency braking on every trim. This system brakes for you if it spots a likely collision with vehicles or pedestrians.
Lane keep assistance helps you stay on track, gently steering back if you drift and warning you with lights and sounds.
Traffic sign recognition reads speed limits and puts them on your dashboard. That’s genuinely useful on Ireland’s ever-changing roads.
Tiguan matches these features with its own safety suite. Autonomous emergency braking, lane keep, and adaptive cruise control all come as standard on most versions.
Adaptive cruise control keeps a set distance from the car ahead, adjusting your speed in traffic. It really helps cut fatigue on long drives across Ireland.
Both cars offer blind spot monitoring on higher trims. This system warns you about vehicles in your blind spot when you’re changing lanes.
“Irish drivers particularly benefit from these active safety systems given our mix of narrow country roads and busy motorways,” says Ciaran Connolly, Lead Reviewer at Amazing Cars and Drives.
Crash Test Ratings
Euro NCAP gave both Tiguan and Qashqai five-star safety ratings. These tests cover front, side, and pole impacts.
Both cars scored really well for adult occupant protection. Qashqai’s front and rear passenger safety results stand out, with strong crumple zones soaking up impact energy.
Child occupant safety also scored high. Both SUVs include ISOFIX points for child seats and protect young passengers well in every seat.
Pedestrian safety gets a boost from active bonnet systems. The bonnet lifts slightly on impact to reduce injuries—pretty clever, really.
The mix of emergency braking, lane assistance, and speed assist tech helps both cars earn top marks for safety assist features.
Costs of Ownership in Ireland
Nissan Qashqai and VW Tiguan both deal with Ireland’s unique cost structure. Buyers pay VRT on new cars and face emissions-based motor tax.
The Tiguan starts at €48,850 in Ireland. Qashqai pricing usually comes in €3,000-5,000 lower for similar trims.
Pricing and Value Retention
The Qashqai lands in Ireland with a noticeable price edge. Entry models start near €35,000, while the Tiguan’s base price is €48,850.
New Car Pricing Comparison:
- Nissan Qashqai: €35,000-42,000
- VW Tiguan: €48,850-55,000
If you finance through PCP, expect to put down 10-20% as a deposit. A €40,000 Qashqai usually means paying €320-380 monthly over three years.
The Tiguan holds onto its value better. After three years, Tiguans keep about 45-50% of their value, while Qashqais settle closer to 40-45%.
Ciaran Connolly, Lead Reviewer at Amazing Cars and Drives, points out, “The Tiguan’s higher purchase price in Ireland is offset by stronger residual values, making the real cost difference smaller than it first appears.”
Both Nissan and VW have strong dealer networks across Ireland. That helps keep resale values steady.
Insurance and Road Tax
Insurance groups look pretty different for these two. The Qashqai falls into groups 15-20, while the Tiguan sits in 18-25.
Annual Insurance Estimates:
- Qashqai: €700-1,100
- Tiguan: €800-1,200
Road tax depends on CO₂ emissions. Most Qashqai petrol engines emit 130-150g/km, so you’ll pay €200-270 a year.
Tiguan engines tend to emit 140-180g/km, which means €270-390 in annual tax. Hybrids from both brands qualify for much lower tax bands, about €140 per year.
If you drive in Dublin, expect to pay 20-30% more for insurance than in rural areas. Both cars have good safety ratings, which helps keep premiums down.
Maintenance and Servicing
Servicing costs usually tip in favor of the Qashqai. Annual maintenance runs €400-600 for the Nissan, while VW owners pay €600-800.
Service Cost Breakdown:
- Minor service: Qashqai €200-250, Tiguan €280-320
- Major service: Qashqai €450-550, Tiguan €550-650
- NCT preparation: Both models €150-200
Both cars have solid parts availability in Ireland. Nissan’s network covers most towns, while VW focuses more on larger centers.
Each model has its quirks. Qashqai CVT gearboxes can cost €3,000-4,000 to replace after 80,000km. Tiguan DSG services come in at €300-400 and can help avoid bigger repairs.
Both brands offer a three-year unlimited mileage warranty. You can buy extended warranties for €800-1,200 a year after that.
Tyre costs don’t differ much—17-inch replacements run €120-160 each from budget brands.
Customisation and Trim Levels
Qashqai and Tiguan both come in several trim levels with different features. The Tiguan gives buyers more ways to customise, though.
Exterior colour options differ too, with each brand offering its own palette for Irish drivers.
Available Trims and Optional Packages
Volkswagen Tiguan trim levels start with the base model. It includes a 12.9-inch infotainment screen, 17-inch alloys, and LED lights.
The Life trim adds 18-inch wheels and park assist, plus diesel and plug-in hybrid options.
Tiguan Match hits the sweet spot for most. It brings an electric tailgate, tinted rear windows, and silver roof rails on top of the basics.
Elegance trim targets those who want more luxury, with heated and massaging seats, diamond-cut wheels, and Area View cameras. R-Line tops the range with 20-inch wheels, sporty bumpers, and bold styling.
Nissan Qashqai trims in Ireland include Visia, Acenta, N-Connecta, and Tekna. You get the ePower hybrid system from mid-spec and up.
Optional packages change a lot from dealer to dealer. VW sells tech packs, winter kits, and towing preps. Nissan leans into convenience and ProPilot assistance bundles.
Ciaran Connolly notes, “Irish buyers often overlook the total cost of options packages, which can add €3,000-5,000 to the final price.”
Exterior Colour Choices
Volkswagen Tiguan colours include Pure White, Deep Black Pearl, Reflex Silver, and Oryx White Pearl as standard. Premium metallics like Atlantic Blue, Makena Turquoise, and Kings Red cost €650-850 extra.
Nissan Qashqai offers Magnetic Red, Gun Metallic, Pearl Black, and Ivory White. Ceramic Grey and Sunset Red metallics are popular but usually cost more.
Both brands charge about the same for metallic paints. Most Irish buyers pick white first, then grey or black.
Sometimes you’ll see special edition colours on higher trims. Tiguan R-Line gets exclusive shades, while Qashqai Tekna might show off unique metallics.
Volkswagen generally uses thicker lacquer coats than Nissan. That can help with durability and resale value, especially in Ireland’s coastal weather.
Frequently Asked Questions
Both SUVs bring different strengths to Irish roads. The Tiguan gives you more space, while the Qashqai stands out for better fuel economy.
Buyers usually want to know about boot capacity, running costs, and which one works better for Irish families.
What are the differences in overall dimensions between the Nissan Qashqai and the VW Tiguan?
The Tiguan is bigger than the Qashqai in almost every way. Volkswagen’s SUV measures longer and wider than its Japanese rival.
The Tiguan stretches 4,486mm long, while the Qashqai comes in at 4,425mm. That 61mm means more interior space, especially for rear passengers.
Width is basically a tie—Tiguan is 1,839mm, Qashqai 1,838mm when mirrors are folded.
Both SUVs stand about 1,650mm tall, depending on trim. The Tiguan’s longer wheelbase means better rear legroom for tall folks.
How does the boot space compare between the Qashqai and the Tiguan?
The Tiguan gives you a lot more boot space. With seats up, Tiguan holds 615 litres, while Qashqai offers 504 litres.
That 111-litre gap really helps with big shops or holiday bags. Irish families often find the extra room handy for sports gear or buggies.
Fold the rear seats and both get even roomier. Tiguan expands to 1,655 litres, Qashqai to 1,593 litres.
Loading height is similar, so you won’t break your back lifting stuff in either car at the supermarket.
Which vehicle offers better fuel efficiency, the 2024 Tiguan or the 2024 Qashqai?
The Qashqai wins on fuel economy every time. The e-POWER hybrid claims about 62mpg officially, though real-world drivers see closer to 50mpg.
Tiguan’s best engines manage around 45-50mpg in mixed driving. That difference could save Irish drivers €400-600 a year on fuel.
Manual Qashqai models don’t do as well. They often dip below 30mpg in city driving, so they’re not ideal for urban commutes.
Ciaran Connolly sums it up: “The manual Qashqai’s poor fuel economy in town driving makes it unsuitable for urban commuters, whilst the E-Power excels in stop-start traffic.”
In terms of safety features, how do the Nissan Qashqai and VW Tiguan compare?
Both SUVs earned five-star Euro NCAP ratings. The Tiguan gives you Volkswagen’s Front Assist with City Emergency Braking as standard.
Qashqai includes Nissan’s Safety Shield tech, like Intelligent Emergency Braking and Traffic Sign Recognition. Higher trims add ProPilot semi-autonomous driving.
Blind spot monitoring comes standard on most Tiguan trims. Qashqai only adds it on higher specs, which changes the safety value a bit.
Lane departure warning and automatic high beams show up on both. The Tiguan’s Travel Assist system helps more on motorways than the Qashqai’s version.
Can you highlight the key tech and interior features that set the Tiguan apart from the Qashqai?
Tiguan drivers get Volkswagen’s Digital Cockpit Pro, a big 10.25-inch instrument display. Qashqai uses a 12.3-inch touchscreen but the driver display is smaller.
Interior quality feels a step up in the Tiguan, especially in higher trims. VW uses softer plastics and the cabin just feels a bit more premium.
Qashqai gives you Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on even the base SV grade. Tiguan keeps wireless smartphone integration for pricier trims.
Storage is a mixed bag. The Tiguan has more door pockets and cup holders, while the Qashqai boasts a bigger centre console.
What are the primary maintenance and running cost differences between the Tiguan and Qashqai?
Qashqai servicing usually costs about €300-600 per year in Ireland. You’ll need to get it serviced every 12,500 miles or once a year, whichever comes first.
Tiguan maintenance tends to cost a bit more, landing somewhere between €350-700 annually.
When it comes to insurance, the Qashqai has a slight edge. Most Qashqai models are in groups 21-25, while the Tiguan often sits in groups 23-27.
Road tax depends on CO2 emissions and when you registered the car. The Qashqai e-POWER usually pays €180 a year. Comparable Tiguan models get hit with €190-210 for road tax.
Parts availability does play a role in long-term costs. Volkswagen parts typically cost more than Nissan’s, though both brands have solid dealer networks throughout Ireland and Northern Ireland.