Simon Harris, the leader of Fine Gael, has stated that no single political party “owns the conversation on Irish unity,” including his own. He emphasized the need for all parties to be involved in the discussion.
Blueprint for a Unified Island
Harris made these remarks after announcing over the weekend that Fine Gael will create a “blueprint for a unified island” by November. Meanwhile, Sinn Féin plans to introduce legislation in the Irish Parliament urging the government to actively prepare for island-wide unity.
Speaking to media in Dublin on Monday morning, Harris stressed that engaging and “listening respectfully” is the best approach forward. “If and when our island is unified, this has to be a home for everybody, for people of all traditions,” he said.
Inclusive Dialogue
Harris noted that the Irish flag includes orange for “a very specific reason,” representing the two traditions on the island. “We have two traditions on this island, and we have to have a conversation that is respectful and inclusive,” he added.
He also argued that moving towards Irish unity should go beyond the consent outlined in the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement. “It’s about this being an exciting journey that people want to be on, and it’s about being honest with people, what are the costs, what would look different in relation to public services, what are the benefits,” Harris explained.
“That’s the conversation we should all have and no one political party, including my own, owns that conversation, we should all be involved in it,” he concluded.
