Sinn Féin Leader Mary Lou McDonald TD has said Taoiseach Micheál Martin’s acknowledgement that there must be greater clarity around the calling of an Irish unity referendum is significant, but must now be followed by action.
Ms. McDonald said, “The Taoiseach is right to say that it is not satisfactory for the triggering of a referendum on Irish unity to rest solely on an undefined judgement call by a British Secretary of State.
“The Good Friday Agreement is clear that the people of this island have the right to determine our constitutional future, and that a referendum must be held where it appears likely that a majority in the North would vote for reunification.
“What has never been clearly set out is how that assessment is to be made. That ambiguity cannot simply be left indefinitely in the hands of a British Government.
“Micheál Martin has now said that there needs to be a discussion about this. I welcome that shift. The Irish Government should now press the British Government for a serious, structured discussion on the criteria and process for triggering a referendum.
“What is just as urgent is the need for the Irish Government to begin the practical work of preparing for a referendum and for the future beyond it.
“This should include a structured conversation involving people of every political tradition and none, including unionists, about the shape of a new and united Ireland.
“People deserve clear information on the economy, public services, healthcare, constitutional governance arrangements and the protections that would be available to every community.
“Preparation is how we ensure that, when people vote, they do so on the basis of facts, options and a clear plan.
“The Taoiseach should therefore move beyond commentary and establish a Citizens’ Assembly on Irish unity and constitutional change.
“The conversation about Ireland’s future is already happening. The Irish government should be leading and shaping that preparation, not standing apart from it.
“The Good Friday Agreement provides the democratic pathway to Irish unity. Our responsibility now is to prepare seriously and inclusively for the change that lies ahead.”
