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1 August 2016 Edition

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Persuaders for Irish unity

Editorial – Eagarfhocal

In the wake of Brexit, other political parties are also beginning to open their minds to the prospect of a United Ireland Referendum and Irish unity. It is something republicans should encourage amongst the rank and file as well as leaderships and the wider community.

NOW, more than ever, republicans must become persuaders for Irish unity, the reunification of our country, a nation once again.

A united Ireland is suddenly back on the political agenda after the Westminster EU referendum “Brexit” result. 

The new British Prime Minister and her English Tory Cabinet at Westminster have effectively said that voters in Scotland and the North of Ireland have to take second place to the wishes of the more numerous voters of England.

The votes of the North of Ireland and Scotland don’t count as much as those of England.

Even people from the unionist community are angry and apprehensive about this disregard for their desire to remain in the EU and the very real impacts a withdrawal will have on their day-to-day lives and their children’s future.

As the English Tories stumble around, trying to devise a strategy for Brexit, republicans have to translate the appeal of a reunited Ireland from the emotional to the practical.

We have to persuade people across the 32 Counties – unionist as well as nationalist – that a united Ireland is affordable and workable.

In the time ahead, more and more people who would have either opposed Irish unity or would have been dubious about it will be open to the idea of exploring new relationships on this island.

Republicans must be proactive and engaged in those discussions.

There is a need to be open and imaginative about the possible new constitutional arrangements and political structures that might be needed in a united Ireland.

In the wake of Brexit, other political parties are also beginning to open their minds to the prospect of a United Ireland Referendum and Irish unity. It is something republicans should encourage amongst the rank and file as well as leaderships and the wider community.

There has never been a better opportunity in recent history for republicans to advance the ideals epitomised by the heroes of 1916 and the H-Blocks.

Let us not fail them by letting this opportunity pass us by.

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