Sounds like you have toured a lot? Can you suggest some other areas in Europe with better weather (maybe I sound create a new thread?)? I was thinking maybe Italy. But I guess a good number of hills there. I really want to avoid France not sure if they will have things under control next year, plus there are plenty of other countries that are more American friendly.
I just want to point out that the weather I experienced in Ireland was extraordinarily wet, even for Ireland. I also toured once along the west coast of Scotland, which on average, is an even wetter place than Ireland. I had unbelievably warm & sunny weather in Scotland! If you have your heart set on Ireland, I don't want you to avoid it simply because I had lousy weather years ago.
I may not be the best person to answer your question about other places, because my favorite country in europe for cycling is France. Like Michael said, the problems are restricted to city suburbs, not places you're likely to be touring through. They're diminishing anyway. My absolute favorite region is the Dordogne & Lot valley area (east of Bordeaux & north of Toulouse). Absolutely sublime. And the French love cyclists, including American cyclists.
One very nice country in Europe for cycling is Denmark, though it's expensive. Most of the country has gently rolling hills, lovely countryside, a very bike friendly place. Weather can be a problem there, too, though on average, I think it tends to be drier than Ireland.
What attributes are you looking for in a European touring destination?