Time for referendum on a united Ireland is drawing near, Sinn Fein leader says

Sinn Fein leader Mary Lou Mcdonald has said that an Irish unity referendum is now at the centre of political discussion, in a U-turn on the issue.

The comments come a week after Ms Mcdonald said that a poll on Irish unity should not be held while uncertainty around Brexit remains.

However, she said yesterday: “It is not a question of if a unity referendum will happen but a question of when.”

Shemadetheremarksduring her keynote speech at the 37th annual National Hunger Strike Commemoration in Castlewellan, Co Down.

She added that the process of building a new and united Ireland must include unionists and the Irish government should lead the discussion.

She said: “The need for a referendum to end partition is writ large and the time for a unity referendum is drawing near. Political leaders must begin practical preparations for a new, inclusive Ireland beyond partition.

“The Irish government in particular has a responsibility to lead an informed, reasoned and respectful public dialogue on the issue.

“As Britain turns away from Europe, the appeal of being part of a new and outwardlooking Ireland will, I believe, prove ever more attractive to some within the unionist community.”