Leo Varadkar, the ex-Taoiseach, has emphasised the critical need for the upcoming government to actively strive for the unity of Ireland. At a Belfast event called Ireland’s Future on Saturday, he expressed his desires for the unification to evolve into a political goal, regardless of the composition of the future government.
He discussed the importance of proactive steps in laying the groundwork for unification, understanding its fiscal implications, and initiating conversations on the potential structure of the new constitution. Varadkar also proposed the establishment of a financial fund by the government to ease the transition towards unity.
Drawing parallels with how the government readies itself for other events of significance, he deemed it rational to utilise the same approach towards unity, suggesting that money should be set aside presently to facilitate a smoother transition. While he refrained from suggesting any specific timeframe for a border poll, he insisted that referendums should occur when the prevailing conditions favour victory on both sides.
Varadkar underlined the importance of only proceeding with unification once there’s sufficient confidence in its potential success. Based on current electoral results and research, he believes there’s still a need to strengthen support for unifying Ireland.
Answering a question regarding the criteria for a border poll, which per the Belfast Agreement, can only be sanctioned by the Northern Secretary, Varadkar advocated for a dialogue on defining the appropriate conditions. He avoided outlining criteria himself, stating that it should be a collaborative endeavour between parties and governments.
On a practical note, Varadkar highlighted that unity preparations might involve bolstering the Shared Island unit within the Department of the Taoiseach, allowing it to further develop different models of what a united Ireland could look like. This advice was amongst several points put forth by Varadkar at the Pathway to Change event in Belfast’s SSE Arena, which drew several thousand spectators on Saturday.
Among those present at the event in Belfast were Michelle O’Neill, Northern Ireland’s First Minister, Mary Lou McDonald from Sinn Féin, GAA President Jarlath Burns, and union leader Mick Lynch. Official representation from the Alliance was Nuala McAllister, stepping in on behalf of Naomi Long, who had earlier pulled out of a panel discussion. Notably, no unionist politicians were involved.
The gathering is a continuation of events initiated by pro-unity group Ireland’s Future. Their mission is to orchestrate conversations and strategise a united Ireland under the guidance of the Belfast Agreement.
In his central speech, Mr Burns emphasised that all options must be open in the Irish unity dialogue. He insisted that it is crucial to show everyone on the island that all perspectives are valued and efforts to integrate various island traditions are genuine – even those newcomers.
He expressed his belief that if the benefits of islanders controlling their own fate in an inclusive, non-intimidating manner were clear, most would consider it worthwhile to examine.
In her speech, Ms O’Neill aimed to end the existing ambiguity over the reconstruction of Casement Park GAA base in west Belfast. She assured that it would be completed under her tenure. Furthermore, she reflected on her affiliation with Deputy First Minister Emma Little-Pengelly from the DUP, stating that despite their contrasting backgrounds, their unifying cause was the wellbeing and development of their community.