Issue with 'British Isles' title on Sky Nature

[JQ2022]

Sky prides itself on servicing its international markets, and usually does so very well (including with Irish-specific advertising for Irish audiences). But the use of the title 'British Isles' in a new Sky Nature programme is not one I can stay silent on. "Shark: British Isles Special with Steve Backshall" is an excellent, informative piece, but the title lends itself to division. The term 'British Isles' is not officially recognised by Ireland and stems back to British Empire rule. Several other geographical options could be used such as 'Britain and Ireland', 'North Atlantic' or simply 'These Islands'. Going forward, Sky should be more considerate of the Irish market/audience. 

[Mark39 · Accepted solution]

The Viewer Relations team are the people to raise this with, if you want Sky to hear.

[nolte]

I would recommend emailing viewer relations at viewerR@sky.uk to deal with this

Is there much of the series around the irish seas? 

[Doc5907]

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@JQ2022 wrote:

Sky prides itself on servicing its international markets, and usually does so very well (including with Irish-specific advertising for Irish audiences). But the use of the title 'British Isles' in a new Sky Nature programme is not one I can stay silent on. "Shark: British Isles Special with Steve Backshall" is an excellent, informative piece, but the title lends itself to division. The term 'British Isles' is not officially recognised by Ireland and stems back to British Empire rule. Several other geographical options could be used such as 'Britain and Ireland', 'North Atlantic' or simply 'These Islands'. Going forward, Sky should be more considerate of the Irish market/audience. 

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The word British actually originates from a Celtic language word Priteni which resulted in Pretannia. Then when the Romans came along they swapped the P to B to form Britannia.

Just saying like..

[JQ2022]

Thanks for this! 👍🏼 Though I was more referring to its usage and historical significance than its origins. But good to know none the less

[JQ2022]

Cheers! 

[JQ2022]

Thanks - will try that!