Ireland’s Future Event on Irish unity attended by Sinn Féin and Alliance representatives but no unionist politicians
Former taoiseach Leo Varadkar speaking during the Ireland's Future event at the SSE Arena, Belfast, on Saturday. Photograph: Brian Lawless/PASpeaking at an Ireland’s Future event in Belfast on Saturday, the former taoiseach said he hoped that no matter which parties make up that government, “what we’ll see is a long-standing aspiration towards unification become a political objective”.
How Dublin City Council’s new anti-migrant councillors will complicate the business of local governmentJust as Government prepared for other contingencies, he said, “I think it’s reasonable to apply that same logic to unification and to start to set aside money now to ease and make that transition easier”.
“I’m not going to describe the criteria here because I don’t know what they should be, that’s something that has to be discussed by the parties and the governments,” he said. The Alliance MLA Nuala McAllister attended in place of her party leader, Naomi Long, who withdrew from a panel discussion. No unionist politicians took part.
He said “everyone on the island needs to know that we are serious about respecting differing viewpoints and sincere about trying to accommodate the various traditions on the island – including those most recently arrived.
Ireland Latest News, Ireland Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Philip Nolan v Science Foundation Ireland: The dispute that has rocked Ireland’s science communityCase likely to hinge on issue of whether fair procedures were applied when board of science funding body summarily dismissed director general
Read more »
Horse Racing Ireland 'shocked and appalled' at abuses exposed in Ireland's only horse abattiorAgriculture Minister Charlie McConalogue said ‘no stone will be left unturned in making sure the full rigours of the law are applied’.
Read more »
Northern Ireland thrashed by Spain, while Portugal slip up ahead of Ireland friendlyRoberto Martinez’s Portuguese fell 2-1 at home to Croatia and will host John O’Shea’s side on Tuesday.
Read more »
Palestine Ambassador ‘personally thrilled’ with Ireland’s recognition of stateThe Palestinian Ambassador to Ireland is 'personally thrilled' with Ireland's decision to recognise the state.
Read more »
Is there still value to be found on holidays in Ireland? Send us your tips and recommendationsHolidays in Ireland: Are there underexplored areas or hidden gems in Ireland that offer good value?
Read more »
Lack of security clearance system causing trouble for high-tech firms in Ireland, agencies warnEnterprise Ireland and IDA Ireland say lack of official procedure is hindering innovative companies internationally
Read more »