They have been saying that for years, while Feadóg Teo were reportedly making them. That's also the reason why I took notice recently when I saw 'made in the USA' on the packaging again. I'll double check next time when I am in a shop that stocks them. Several webshops list it as US made (LarkitM, Andy's Front Hall) while others (Whistleshop) list it as Made in Ireland, possibly based on old(er) stock.I bought an Oak in four months ago that came saying "made in Ireland" on the packaging
The US made Oaks used to look like this:
You couldn't get them in Europe for a long time. Whistlers from the US would have them and Micho Russell brought one back from one of his trips. The distinct black headed whistle, in the days when whistleheads were red or blue only, was envied by many. After Micho died Gussie played it for a while.
Materials-wise it's maybe of interest to note many forum members here complained for a period of time that playing their Oak would cause a tingling sensation or numbness of the lips.