Parties that want to unite Ireland must say how this would happen without shambles of a Brexit

THERE has been much talk of late of a united Ireland. But, as yet, I have heard nothing substantial from any political party on how this would be achieved in a peaceful and prosperous manner.

As we have seen from the ongoing Brexit debacle, an unplanned approach is a great cause for concern, so I would request those parties in favour of an integrated policy to share with the citizens of this island their plan to achieve a united Ireland that would offer a better quality of life for all of our citizens.

What is the plan and how do they propose to integrate the civil service, health and education and, of course, promote economic growth? What would be the nature of job losses due to the implementation of an integrated approach? How much would it cost and who would pay? Would our citizens be better off than they are currently within the UK and Irish Republic?

Unionists have always proclaimed they would be better off remaining in the UK, so the very least one would expect from those political parties calling for Irish unity is that they present their plan outlining the approach to be taken and the advantages of this scenario.

Political parties are, of course, entitled to raise these issues. However, we must engage in an approach for a shared future based on a process that is clearly defined and communicated.

We must strive to overcome the divisions of the past and to build a shared future for all of our people, based on a willingness to overcome political restraints and, by acting on sound principles, achieve the planned objectives.

We must learn from the poorly led and unplanned approach to Brexit and engage in proper discourse to achieve a successful outcome.

IAN JOHNSTON Newtownabbey, Co Antrim