April 20, 2021
End the denial and start planning for Irish unity – Mary Lou McDonald TD

Sinn Féin President Mary Lou McDonald TD has called on the Irish and British governments to end their denial and to start planning for Irish unity.

Her comments follow the broadcast of a BBC Spotlight programme tonight.

Teachta McDonald said:

“The Good Friday Agreement expressly provides for referenda on Irish unity to be held north and south.

“Both the Irish and British governments are bound to uphold the Agreement.

“Dismissive rhetoric does not – and cannot – take from their obligations.

“The British Prime Minister Boris Johnston has no right to stand in the way of progress and orderly constitutional change in Ireland. His comments on this evening’s Spotlight programme are arrogant and unacceptable. 

“There is now a live and growing conversation underway about Irish unity and the benefits it will bring to the people of Ireland, north and south. Vibrant and inclusive conversations are taking place in communities across the island.

“Brexit and Covid-19 have each exposed the very real dangers of having two jurisdictions on our small island. Through Irish unity, we have an exciting opportunity to build an economically strong and diverse country that reconciles past divisions and looks to the future.

“The Irish government can no longer bury their heads in the sand. Failing to plan for constitutional change at this critical juncture represents a dereliction of duty. 

“The Taoiseach’s continued refusal to accept this reality is reckless. 

“The responsible and necessary approach is to now engage in discussions and dialogue, and to plan for change.

“Immediate steps that should be taken include the commissioning of a government White Paper on Irish Unity, the establishment of an Oireachtas Committee on Irish Unity, the full implementation of the Good Friday Agreement and the convening of a Citizens’ Assembly on Irish reunification. 

“Unity represents an opportunity to bring all of our people together to build a new Ireland. We believe that can happen within the next five years. Preparation for unity is urgent and must begin now.” 

Follow us online

Latest Tweets

The price of this Government in office is an extra €3,800 per year on your rent.

As rents hit an all time high we need:

📈 3 year ban on rent increases;
💶 1 month's rent back in renters' pocket;
🏘️ More affordable properties to rent or buy

– @PearseDoherty

Tonight’s game at Windsor Park is testament to the incredible growth and development of women’s football across the island.

Every player on the pitch this evening is a role model for women’s football, and an inspiration to our next generation of athletes.

We must continue to…

📺 Sinn Féin spokesperson on Enterprise, Trade and Employment @loreillysf will be live on @TonightVMTV this evening, from 10:30pm.

Watch here: https://www.virginmediatelevision.ie/player/live/virgin-media-one/

#TonightVMTV

British government failure to engage with transport unions is unacceptable - @DeclanKearneySF.

"Public transport workers provide an essential service in our society and they deserve a proper pay settlement, as well as our solidarity and support."

Load More