Politics

Dublin to Create Body to Study Possibility of United Ireland

By Reuters

The Irish government will establish a body to examine the prospect of a united Ireland. Prime Minister Micheál Martin told The Irish Times that Dublin will, for the first time, research and prepare for a union with British‑run Northern Ireland. The body will study different models and challenges for various outcomes, including Northern Ireland remaining part of the United Kingdom or retaining some autonomy within a united Ireland. Under the 1998 Good Friday Agreement, the British government must call a referendum on Irish unity – a “border poll” – if it appears likely that a majority of Northern Irish voters would support it. Martin said the push for a border poll since Brexit has been partisan and one‑sided, presenting the idea as inevitable and a victory for nationalism rather than an approach that genuinely seeks all voices. Opinion polls consistently show a majority favouring remaining in the United Kingdom, although the gap has narrowed since the UK left the European Union, and Irish nationalist parties such as Sinn Féin have increased calls for a referendum. Martin plans to bring the first steps of his proposal to cabinet before the end of the year. His government partner, Fine Gael, is expected to publish a blueprint for a unified island at its annual conference next week.