Sinn Féin candidate for the European election in Midlands/North West, Michelle Gildernew MP, has said that ‘Simon Harris clearly doesn’t speak for his generation on Irish unity.

She said:

“Simon Harris’ clumsy and ill-informed remarks today are not reflective of young people’s view on achieving a United Ireland. He does not represent his generation’s views.

“Ireland is changing and young people, north and south, are to the fore in the conversation about the future of our country.

“Young people I meet are enthused and excited about the prospect of a United Ireland, and we need to talk about the change that is underway and start planning. They know they will be involved in shaping a nation and are excited by the prospect.

“The Irish government cannot continue to look the other way. If Simon Harris wants to do something productive, he should start to prepare now for unity by establishing a Citizens’ Assembly to plan for Irish unity.”