Why Now Is the Time to Prepare
The conversation about Irish Unity is no longer a distant dream; it’s a growing reality. With every passing year, especially in the wake of Brexit, more people across the island of Ireland are actively considering a future united Ireland. As we face this crucial moment in our history, we must embrace the momentum and take the necessary steps to prepare for the path forward.
In this blog, I’ll explore the reasons why now is the right time to move forward with a unity referendum, the benefits a united Ireland offers, and the actions we need to take to make this vision a reality.
Key Takeaways:
Momentum for Irish Unity is Growing: The conversation around Irish Unity has intensified, especially after Brexit revealed the democratic deficit faced by Northern Ireland.
A Unity Referendum is Inevitable: It’s not a question of if but when. Proper planning and inclusive engagement, like establishing a Citizens’ Assembly, are essential to ensuring a successful referendum.
Economic Benefits of Unification: Unifying the economies of the North and South could bring significant economic gains, potentially boosting the island's economy by up to €35 billion within the first decade.
Cultural and Social Inclusion: A united Ireland must embrace all identities—Catholic, Protestant, and Dissenter—while also promoting the revival of the Irish language as a symbol of shared national identity.
Involvement of Trade Unions: The support of trade unions and civil society is crucial to ensure that workers’ rights, social justice, and equality are central to the vision of a new Ireland.
The Role of the Irish Diaspora: Our diaspora remains a powerful ally. Engaging Irish communities abroad, especially in the US and Canada, can strengthen the campaign for unity.
Youth Engagement is Key: The future of a united Ireland lies in the hands of young people. Their involvement in advocacy for social equality, climate action, and sustainable development is critical.
A Call for Action: It’s time for the Irish Government to prepare for the unity referendum. But every citizen also has a role to play in contributing to the dialogue, advocating for change, and ensuring that we are ready to win when the time comes.
The Changing Political Landscape
Brexit fundamentally altered the dynamics on this island. It laid bare the democratic deficit in Northern Ireland, where the majority voted to remain in the EU, yet were forced out against their will due to decisions made in Westminster. This disregard for the democratic wishes of the North has intensified discussions around the constitutional future of Ireland.
Sinn Féin has been at the forefront of this conversation, advocating for a unity referendum as outlined in the Good Friday Agreement. The growing public support for this cause is evident—not just among nationalists but also among those who were once hesitant. Polls show an increasing openness to the idea of unification, driven by a desire for political stability and economic prosperity.
Preparing for a Unity Referendum
A unity referendum is not a question of if but when. However, it’s crucial that we approach it with careful planning. We’ve seen how successful referenda, like those on marriage equality and the repeal of the 8th Amendment, were managed through structured citizen engagement. This same approach must be applied to a unity referendum.
The Irish Government has a constitutional obligation to prepare for this vote. It’s vital that we establish a Citizens’ Assembly to involve communities across the island in shaping the vision for a united Ireland. This process would ensure that all voices are heard, fostering a spirit of inclusion that is essential for a successful transition.
The Economic Benefits of a United Ireland
Partition has held back the economic potential of the North for too long. The so-called subvention payments from Britain are often exaggerated, while the economic opportunities of unification remain underestimated. Studies, such as the Hubner report, suggest that a unified Ireland could see an economic boost of up to €35 billion within the first decade.
Unifying the economies of the North and South would open up significant opportunities for investment, job creation, and improved living standards. The benefits of having access to both the EU and UK markets could transform industries and reduce the economic disparities that have persisted for over a century. An all-island approach to trade, healthcare, education, and infrastructure would bring about a more prosperous and sustainable future for all.
Embracing Cultural and Social Unity
A united Ireland must be inclusive, embracing the diverse identities that make up this island. In the spirit of the United Irishmen of 1798, led by Wolfe Tone, we must strive to unite all communities—Catholic, Protestant, and Dissenter—under the common name of “Irish”. This isn’t just a political endeavour but a cultural one, too.
The revival of the Irish language, Gaeilge, is a key aspect of this cultural unification. Gaeilge is not only a link to our past but also a tool for forging a shared future. It’s a powerful symbol of our national identity and can serve as a unifying force that transcends divisions. In a new, united Ireland, we must protect and promote the language, ensuring that it has a central place in our society.
The Role of Trade Unions and Civil Society
The movement towards a united Ireland is not just about politicians—it’s about people. Trade unions have long been champions of workers’ rights, social justice, and equality, and their involvement is crucial in the push for unity. The Trade Unionists for a New and United Ireland (TUNUI) group is actively engaging workers across the island, highlighting how unification can create fairer economic conditions for all.
By building alliances between unions, community groups, and activists, we can ensure that the voices of ordinary people are at the heart of this movement. Together, we can build a new Ireland that prioritises social equality, workers’ rights, and economic justice.
Engaging the Diaspora and International Community
The Irish diaspora has always played a vital role in our struggle for independence, and today, they continue to be a source of support and solidarity. From the bars of Boston to the building sites of Toronto, the descendants of our exiled children remain committed to the cause of Irish Unity.
In recent years, Irish Americans, along with political leaders in the US and Canada, have consistently defended the Good Friday Agreement during Brexit negotiations. Their support will be invaluable as we move towards a unity referendum. We must continue to engage with our global allies to ensure that the international community stands with us in our pursuit of a united Ireland.
A Call to Action for the Younger Generation
The future of a united Ireland lies in the hands of the next generation. Young people today are more progressive, diverse, and forward-thinking than ever before. They have the power to drive the campaign for unity by focusing on issues like social equality, climate action, and sustainable development.
We must empower young people to take an active role in shaping the Ireland they want to see. By participating in grassroots campaigns, joining local initiatives, and advocating for change, the youth can lead the way towards a new, inclusive Ireland.
Conclusion
The conversation about Irish Unity is gaining momentum, but it cannot happen without careful planning and active participation. Unity is not just a political goal; it is the key to unlocking the full potential of our island, economically, socially, and culturally. The Irish government has a duty to prepare for this future. But it is also up to each of us to contribute to the dialogue, to advocate for change, and to ensure that when the time comes, we are ready to win the unity referendum.
Let us embrace this historic opportunity to build a new, united Ireland—one that is inclusive, prosperous, and free from the divisions of the past.
Together, we can make the dream of a united Ireland a reality.
