Ireland’s Future: The next chapter in the history of Ireland

a Chara,

Happy New Year! It is a beautiful, cold, and clear day in Ireland. In tune with the season, it feels fresh.

At this time everyone turns to prepare for the coming year. I am the same, although I don’t make predictions or resolutions.

I am old enough to accept that nothing goes according to plan, but with the right attitude and approach, things tend to work out.

As Irish Republican activists, our culture is not to sit and speculate. Our job is to shape the future.

We face uncertainties as a new Administration and Congress is convened. However, there has always been deep and enduring bipartisan support for peace and progress in Ireland. Long may that continue. In a world beset by conflict, Ireland remains a beacon of hope and an American foreign policy success.

This will also be an election year in Canada with a new Government likely formed. The Tory party leading in the polls is untested on the issue of Ireland, but has always operated in support of peace.

In Britain, the Labour government has plummeted in the polls over its first six months in office and has not stayed true to its commitments, particularly in addressing the injustices of their past during the years of conflict. They have a super majority and look likely to continue in office.

We are still without a government in Dublin as Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael continue their slow courtship with a coalition of so-called independents. Meanwhile, housing costs continue to soar and a generation heads back to Australia, Canada, Britain, and the US after a Christmas in Ireland.

These uncertainties represent risks but also opportunities.

Behind the political scorecard, there is a growing debate about the future and potential to build a new and united Ireland. The young people leaving want to return to an Ireland which matches the opportunities of their new homes. A reason and attainable goal.

While we have work to progress Irish Unity at home, the diaspora will have a role in shaping the US, Canadian, British, and in particular Irish Government policy. The Good Friday Agreement is the pathway to Irish Unity.

The Irish Government should include in its, “Programme for Government”,  the appointment of a Minister with the responsibility to plan and prepare for Unity, convene a Citizens Assembly, and begin the discussion with the British Government on the date and details of holding the promised Irish Unity Referendums.

It is what a Sinn Féin government would do. It is what an Irish government worthy of that title should do.

The next chapter in the history of Ireland, the peaceful and democratic reunification of the nation is being written. It’s time for the Irish Government to sign on.

Have a great weekend and again Happy New Year!

Is mise,

Ciarán

Ciarán Quinn is the Sinn Féin Representative to North America