Sinn Féin MP Pat Cullen has said the trade union movement and the Irish diaspora have a key role to play in helping to build a new Ireland.
 
Addressing a meeting at the Trade Union Congress, ‘Trade Unionists for Irish unity’, in Brighton this evening, Pat Cullen said:
 
“We must work together to create a new and better future which uplifts the most vulnerable, empowers workers and families and delivers good public services.
 
“There is a thriving conversation around what a new Ireland would look like, that conversation is growing by the day and is flowing throughout all sections of society.
 
“We are clear – planning and preparation for unity should start now. The Irish government must lead those preparations, and this should start by immediately establishing a Citizens’ Assembly.
 
“There is now a real opportunity to shape a more prosperous future in a stronger, better and fairer Ireland.
 
“An opportunity to create a first-class all-Ireland national health service, a sustainable housing system, affordable childcare, and a fair and just transition to a carbon neutral economy.
 
“The goal now is to convince and persuade as many people as possible, and the international community and the diaspora have a key role in helping achieve this.
 
“We are appealing to trade unionists and other progressives in Britain, and indeed across the world, to join us in plotting our way forward.
 
“To build the momentum of a new united and better Ireland and together, and to build a fairer society for everyone.” CRÍOCH/ENDS