Religion's role in Angela's Ashes in the era of Islam

I saw the movie for the first time last night. What struck me most was just how much Ireland was dominated by the Irish Catholic church. The church was portrayed very much as part of the ruling establishment. The religion was used as a control mechanism. It appeared to suit the church leaders that the people begged from them for food stamps and rotten furniture.

I think most people would look at that and say "well isn't it good that Ireland moved on from that." I certainly would say that.

The issue I have these days is that the same people who would say that, wouldn't say it about Islam i.e. should those who live under the control of Islam strive to shrug it off and move away from Islamic dominance in their societies.

As far as I'm concerned, religous domination is the same, regardless of the actual religion.