I just assumed the Irishman was meant to be ex-IRA. It's one of those stereotypes that very few people seem to take offense to, unfortunately. It didn't bother me anymore than if the mercenary had been from the Middle East, but I suspect the detail would have resonated more strongly with me if I were more directly affected by either terrorist movement.

We have a pub down here that's owned by Irish people, and while most of the menu is pretty standard, it includes a sandwich called the Belfast Bomber. I've always found that one to be a bit offensive. It'd be like me opening an American-style diner and having a 9/11 special. o_O