Mam’s the word
IT’S goodbye to the Irish mammy – as most of us now call her “mam”.
What we call our mothers is a subject of national debate, with variations around the country.
A new survey ahead of Mother’s Day has found two-thirds of Irish people call their mothers “mam”.
More than 66% of us say mam, while another 13% say “mammy” and nearly 10% say “mum”.
Growing in polularity at about 6% is the American name “mom” which is being adopted by a younger generation.
Smaller numbers of those surveyed used the term “mother” while another minority called their mother by their given name.
Only a tiny percentage used the name “Ma”. Previous studies have found that geography plays a part in what term we use.
Those in Ulster are more likey to say “Mum”, while Dubs tend to go for “ma” or “mam” and in Donegal, mammy is more common. Mom is popular in Kerry.
Actress Saoirse Ronan calls her mother Monica “mom” while Ryan Tubridy has often casually referred to his beloved “ma” Catherine.
The survey was commissioned by FLYEFIT gym chain, who are offering a
» Only 13% use ‘mammy’
» Geography key to names
free gym session to the mammies of all its members on Mother’s Day on Sunday, March 10.
Researchers asked what kind of gym class mothers would like best and dance came out top (43%) with pilates next (27%) and yoga at 18%. Chiara Palagi of FLYEFIT, said: “We are inviting our members and their mums to celebrate Mother’s Day with us by taking part in one of the 180 classes we offer in all 20 locations in Dublin and Cork.”
Dublin Zoo is also ready to honour mothers on that Sunday with a mums go free offer. Visitors can avail of the complimentary adult ticket when a full paying adult or child ticket is purchased online.
On the day, mothers will get a mumsonly discount for a tea or coffee and donut at the Meerkat Restaurant, Picnic Bench or Starbucks.
Dublin Zoo will also host an array of themed keeper talks where families can learn about the mothers of Dublin Zoo and get the opportunity to see some of their offspring. Vist www. dublinzoo.ie for more information.