Are The DUP And Unionists Open To A United Or New Ireland?

Wallace Thompson who was one of the founders of the party back in the early 1970s has come forward as someone open to the idea of a New Ireland, but what does this mean for Unionism and a United Ireland.
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#brexit
#dup
#unitedireland
#newireland

[@vinylrulesok8470]

As an English man living in Ireland for the last 14 years I can honestly say that I've been warmly welcomed and accepted into the community by everyone here.

[@atix50]

As an Irish woman, I feel I must point out the one distinct difference that will forever remain between us Irish and British. The great divide. Your sausages are muck. I don't feel this issue will ever be resolved, but if we can move past it... 😂

[@raymonddixon7603]

@@atix50 What about the Ulster fry 🐖🐖🐖🐖🐖🐖

[@stop-the-greed]

Breakfast rashers

[@niallmartin9063]

Fáilte romhait ☘️

[@jonsweeney3845]

​@@atix50😂😂😂😂😂

[@philipcorr8225]

Some years ago when Peter Robinson stepped down as head of the DUP, he said something similar. He warned unionists that they can't continually say no

[@tonykelpie]

The concept of ‘Union’ with the South is critical; DUP members need to get to grips with the fact that the English don’t want them and can’t wait to see the back of them

[@jimcazador6057]

I don't think the Southerners are to keen to have us either, they were quick to give up articles 2&3 of the constitution. We are stuck between a rock and a hard place.

[@tonykelpie]

@@jimcazador6057 thanks Jim. I think in time some accommodation will happen; at a glacial pace probably though. Ireland is a surprisingly big island and (I believe) has only ever existed as a unified country under the influence of an invader; but there is the potential for a great country to emerge from today’s scenario. Hopefully external influences will keep out of the process

[@jonathanbuzzard1376]

I think you will find the Scots and the Welsh would be just as happy to be shot of the Unionists too.

[@shred_hand_of_ulster]

@@jimcazador6057 Those articles were traded for peace and a legal route of uniting the country i.e. a border poll when a majority is seen to want it. The south will overwhelmingly support unity when the time comes.

[@scottmorrison4522]

not true and not every Englishman

[@gobnait7855]

Why a new flag? This is the Irish flag 🇮🇪 . They’re on it!

[@joeduffy3309]

but what will they burn every July ?

[@Dreyno]

@@joeduffy3309Ivory Coast flags. A lot of them were doing it anyway because they’re too thick to know the difference.

[@adrianduggan4739]

I think in fairness to unionists, particularly those affected by the troubles they would have huge issue being represented by a flag that was used by one of the armed powers that inflicted so much harm on society in the north. Irish people wouldn’t like to use the Union Jack so I think we would need a new flag. But I think there are probably more pressing things they’d like the answer to, like do we have socialised healthcare like the NHS in a new Ireland. Do unionists get to keep their British identity or will they be forced to have Irish citizenship if they don’t want that. Right now if they retained British citizenship they wouldn’t be allowed vote for the president or in constitutional referendums for example, that would be an issue.

[@loneprimate]

​​@@adrianduggan4739I imagine people living in what was Northern Ireland would be Irish citizens but have the option of also being British, much as they do at the moment. Mind you, that would be up to the British government to allow. It might be generational or time-limited.

[@joeduffy3309]

@@adrianduggan4739 Dual citizenship??? ,,, good grief nobody is going to be forced to do anything. The union jack is not the Irish flag and nothing to do with Ireland, new or old,,,Lots of Poles living here with there flag in their windows, should we give them 6 counties of their own? Munster maybe? and the old nhs argument again,,,just what is so brilliant about it? It's no better, or worse, than our health system. btw, as residents they would be allowed vote for a president, just like they would be voting for their own local ministers to represent them in the Dail.

[@philjameson292]

Its just a matter of when. Brexit has been a great recruiter for a united Ireland

[@VectorTracker]

Surely the opposite is the case certainly before the Windsor agreement anyway

[@johndoe1909]

​@@VectorTrackerif the dup had played their cards rights the northern ireland protocol, aka windsor framework, would have worked in their favour. dup is the party of stupid, so they botched that.

[@jillybe1873]

I'm old now, but im not dying till i see a united Ireland, so please get a move on!😁

[@Tay12345]

Probably isn’t happening, Antrim and Down aren’t going to join.

[@araven3888]

I hope there is a united Ireland . Im english and i dont even wanna be part of England 😂😂 😂😂

[@lewisgreenway5065]

I think our club is expanding. 😁

[@Tay12345]

If the union breaks I am going to support an independent London. We could be like Monaco or Singapore. But I will do everything to stop the union breaking.

[@petercunningham5640]

​@@lewisgreenway5065move to Irl very welcome ☘️

[@KMartin-jf5kw]

Grow up and don't be rude.

[@pauljosephbuggle3722]

As an Irish Republican (pacifist) I am open to a new Ireland. Unionists are welcome in Ireland, although they might not appreciate that fact yet.

[@roisinmalone3015]

If you're a Republican surely you want a United Ireland.

[@roisinmalone3015]

@@davepangolin4996 Because they would be part of a United Ireland built on democracy and equality.

[@roisinmalone3015]

@@davepangolin4996 ?? Don't understand, is this some kind of white supremacist type comment?

[@cjm3109]

​@@davepangolin4996There is approx 800,000 Unionists in NI not 3/4 million.

[@ClannCholmain]

@@cjm3109 they are approximately 1% of the United Kingdom electorate.

[@thomasreilly6362]

The people's Assembly meeting have been going on in Ireland for some time now. They are quite easy to find on KZbin. The bulk of the discussions are about housing, health education transport and jobs. The emphasis is always on inclusion in a changing Ireland. Accommodating as diverse communities that are growing in Ireland. Unionist have been invited on every occasion to voice their concerns and opinions few from the DUP have shown any interest but the Church of Ireland have been active in encouraging more dialogue.

[@user-fp1iz6tg4s]

Bring on the new Ireland, a country with a population of 7+ million would have a more sustainable internal market and much greater voice in the world

[@daltonadams4672]

Brexit has made some in NI realise Westminster doesn't want them, and find them a drag on the rest of the union.

[@tisFrancesfault]

tbf, especially under tory rule, anything outside the home counties is considered in a hostile manner.

[@mandycouchbean]

Credit to Wallace Thompson for speaking out!

[@martint2925]

Sorry Mandy but he's about 40 years to late he wasn't that bothered when unionists were in the majority and they were trampling nationalists into the ground

[@maxinlux6570]

Remarkable! A pragmatic Unionist, and a veteran Unionist at that! Way to go, DUP.

[@howertingsyaboya3789]

Unfortunately the words pragmatic and DUP are oxymoronic.

[@hwica2753]

Freedom from England is a good step and I'm English.

[@jillybe1873]

I'm welsh and I can only agree

[@tisFrancesfault]

No, its a dumb opinion if made prima facie, independence for the sake of it is dumb. what is to be gained for all parties is a valid contestation.

[@joeduffy3309]

@@tisFrancesfault It's not independence, Ireland has been independent for over a century. It's righting the 100 year old wrong forced partition under the threat of annihilation.

[@tisFrancesfault]

@@joeduffy3309 There was a vote those of Ulster voted against joining the republic. Unless your view is that the undesirable opposition should be refused a vote, or if they vote it an undesirable way it should be ignored; y'know like a fascist.

[@joeduffy3309]

@@tisFrancesfault if you're talking about the 1973 vote i'm just going to laugh at you

[@philipkudrna5643]

„Not everyone in the party is a complete head-banger…“ - loved it!

[@petertreid]

1000 miles away from the obstinate intransigence we've been clobbered over the head with since time immemorial. I wonder how much sway Mr. Thompson has within the current party.

[@jimmcaleenan7243]

Ireland belongs to all her children i say that as a proud Irish man

[@hl6876]

I would love to see a new Ireland, as a Scot I love Ireland and all its people

[@columbannon9134]

In Ireland we would love that Scotland have it own country back.

[@gorillaguerillaDK]

@@columbannon9134 As a Dane I want to claim Scotland and Ireland as part of our new North Sea "Empire" - and we will go on to reclaim Iceland! While all will gain status as fully independent countries, we will expect at least some of you to participate in Crown Prince "Pingo's" yearly Royal Run! I’m still considering if we should take Norway back as well, I mean, sure, they still have a bit of oil, and it would be fitting for our new collective North Sea Empire - but they will have to stop serving Rakfisk to anyone who isn’t Norwegian or from Sweden and trading it for Surströmming!

[@MiloManning05]

@@columbannon9134you do realise they conquered Ulster 😂

[@Irene-im8xi]

​@@gorillaguerillaDKCan't wait! 😂 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@hl6876]

@@columbannon9134 Thank you 😊

[@darthvadar441]

A 32 county Irish republic is on the way

[@Tay12345]

Only Armagh, Fermanagh, half of Londonderry, Tyrone will join the ROI, the rest are majority British.

[@VectorTracker]

Sounds horrific, honestly there is nothing that could persuade me on that issue. Mainly because of the way the republic is ran

[@darthvadar441]

@@Tay12345 only Antrim and down are majority unionist

[@darthvadar441]

@@VectorTracker couldn't be worse than DUP/UDA and the Tories

[@edwardandrews4087]

Northern Ireland isn't run at all, it just sputters along

[@matt38]

Wallace Thompson is still talking about separation of unionists from the Irish people, they have to except the reality of democracy and except they are the minority when Ireland is reunified they are either Irish citizens or move to England where they are unwanted as Scotland and Wales want them even less. 🤔

[@jillybe1873]

Accept.

[@matt38]

@@jillybe1873 sorry Miss, walking and texting again. 😔

[@raymonddixon7603]

Never trust a man with 2 surnames.

[@edwardandrews4087]

Read the GFA you will be surprised what your government has given away in the event of a United Ireland

[@teamermia7741]

A 'New Ireland' already exists, because a functioning democratic republic is an evolutionary political entity. And such Unionists are welcome to join the 20% of the New Ireland who were not born in the Republic, yet now call it home and have their rights respected like everyone else. That Ireland is a tolerant state is beyond question. So diluting the principles of that Republic as likely as a 'New Rhodesia' or 'New India would have been. To give him his due Wallace sees the writing on the wall, but he can't amend or alter what it is clearly saying, especially if it is only to preserve an antiquated and fading remnant of an Empire most British people no longer relate too.

Give your chin a wipe.

[@lennyw99]

I think I agree with this. I’m a bit of an outsider but I follow Irish politics and I believe Northern Ireland has to sort out its own problems first and then it has to become a “New Ireland” that is compatible with Southern Ireland. I’m not sure the Brexiteers realised they were destroying the union when they ripped themselves away from the EU and it’s obvious this guy can see that the future of NI is not with the UK anymore but with Southern Ireland.

[@Ray67456]

Yes because that 20% that you talk about have fully and successfully integrated into irish society?? And now let's try to integrate Unionist Protestants that for over a century while northern Ireland has existed as a state had chosen to segregate infact their whole so called culture revolves around sectarian hatred.This new Ireland sounds like a great idea.😂

[@davidtkocz8356]

Good to see a unionist Irishman with an open mind on the subject.

[@edwardandrews4087]

He'll probably be on the next bonfire along side Michelle O Neil. The pope seems to have got a reprieve. He doesn't seem to be on them anymore, what with all the lundies

[@Kodakcompactdisc]

The dup are open to nothing even remotely positive.

[@georgecrothers5618]

Deep down the DUP know they would be welcome and protected by law in a new Ireland. Laws like fair employment, which was introduced in N.Ire to give Nationalists a fair crack at employment. (the DUP fought this legislation every step of the way and ironically it could be something that will benefit them in a new Ireland.) But they think very much like the GOP in the USA - if they show any form of leaning towards a new Ireland they know they would lose their power base. Don't hold your breath.

[@grimborn9949]

Good analysis.

[@josephinemonahan915]

Oh! ..methinks he gets the smell of money from “down south”🤔

[@jamesjennings9907]

I do not like this idea of a " new" Ireland, "new" flag "new" anthem. Current unionists are more than welcome in republic of Ireland and have to be part of the discussion and the answer. But that answer is a united Republic Of Ireland A friendly, neighborly, and internationally co operative REPUBLIC OF IRELAND.

[@gothicgolem2947]

It may not happen then. Even in the troubles the ira wanted a new Ireland not to join the republic

[@cjm3109]

​@@gothicgolem2947?

[@edwardandrews4087]

It would be no skin of your nose if the north was a bit different. After all it's a lot different now

[@jamesjennings9907]

@@edwardandrews4087 Not quite sure what you mean by that 🤔.

[@gothicgolem2947]

@@cjm3109 the ira wanted reunification but not to join the Republic of Ireland. They according to a person inside wanted them reunified in a new Ireland

[@dayglofreak81]

I genuinely think that amongst more moderately minded Unionists there is a reluctance to express any sentiment towards unification due to a fear of violent retribution from fanatical Loyalist elements.

[@TheAlchaemist]

I think this is exactly it. And even for this one who opened his mouth, there is a need to disguise it as a "new" thing, despite the fact that the institutions of the republic are democratically healthy, representative and inline with EU...

[@joekavanagh7171]

Ireland does not need a new flag. The green and orange represent nationalism and unionism respectively, and the white represents peace between them.

[@breifne555]

Best of luck telling the Unionists that. In their eyes it's got blood splattered on it of their families and seeing it draped on the coffins of killers. The same goes for the Union Jack for republicans. New flag, new constitution, new anthem, new State. Anything less and nothing will happen apart frrom more war.. Autonomous provincial government is the best way.

[@utubeballbag]

This is known by all, but unionists see it the same way as the Irish see the union jack, which itself is an amalgam of 4 flags including the st Patrick saltaire. Basically they see it as evil. I don't care , burn it get a new one if it means they'll be happy

[@utubeballbag]

@ricoshet-fj8wt what's nonsense?

[@DerekTJ]

I think a when Ireland is one, the tricolour has done it's job and it would be time for a new one.

[@kiltyk1148]

Unionist will accept a new Ireland so long as they are in control. They seem to love everybody else's Democratic rights apart from those they represent. They are in perpetual denial over the loss of control and ever smaller vote share.

[@roisinmalone3015]

They won't be in control though

[@kiltyk1148]

@@roisinmalone3015 hence why there are very few Unionist voices in support and an active campaign to portray Unionist to be the victim.

[@roisinmalone3015]

@@kiltyk1148 Don't care what they're at. They won't be in control.

[@PhilipOsborne-rz9eu]

What a load of nonsense you'll make sure your in charge

[@PhilipOsborne-rz9eu]

Well just like you as long as unionists dance to your tune you'll talk about a shared Ireland on your terms if unionists disagree in any way you'll be out there shouting your Republican rubbish.

[@seankinsellasean]

I don’t think anywhere near the majority in the south would accept a new flag, anthem etc

[@roisinmalone3015]

They wouldn't re research and it's not a top priority for unionists either, ie changing them.

[@raymonddixon7603]

Or a united Ireland for that matter.

[@roisinmalone3015]

@@raymonddixon7603 They would want a United Ireland, the majority, all polls suggest that and more and more re younger people and the vote probably won't be for around ten years anyways. The majority don't want a 26 county Republic. They won't vote for a United Ireland with the Irish flag changed though

[@Tay12345]

Then they cannot annex Northern Ireland. Simple. Maybe they can have Fermanagh though.

[@raymonddixon7603]

@@Tay12345 Maybe throw in Monaghan as well!!!

[@abbofun9022]

Have the Unionists deserved such a graceful move from Ireland yet?

The flag already has those chimps in it.

[@op3129]

maybe grace (like forgiveness) is given - not "earned"? but I get your question. DUP's rhetoric in particular isn't exactly inviting others to extend good will (from anyone? including Westminster? even Stormont? my stars, it seems sometimes like they're trying to alienate everyone)

@@op3129Their entire cult is pure insane hatred and nothing but.

[@studslannigan6286]

@ 😂😂🥁🐷

[@edwardandrews4087]

No, but they will get it anyway, if Ireland lives up to the commitments it signed up to in the GFA

[@samuelmcgovern]

Notwithstanding the trauma some unionists likely associate with the Irish flag, it should not be changed. The tricolour has represented the unionist community in the Protestant orange since its inception in 1847. Green for Celtic Catholicism. White for the peace between the two. What could more fitting?

[@heffo67]

Wow, my mind is blown having watched this. So there is at least one DUP unionist who has his eyes opened and is aware of the current landscape around them. Someone who is brave enough to face what is (potentially) happening and is brave enough to ask the relevant and pertinent questions.

[@ostrichman]

theres loads who know whats going on but wont be as outspoken about the idea as Wallace is.

[@peterebel7899]

The difference in the speed two Germanys coming together compared to two Irelands coming together is Gorbachev vs London.

[@st.george007]

Are they willing to govern from a minority position? That seams to be the current conundrum.

[@edwardandrews4087]

Give you someone else to go into collation with to keep SF out

[@tomgreene1843]

A really significant point the present unionist block could hold the balance of power for years and have greater budgetary influence than they have in London.@@edwardandrews4087

[@barryryan14]

I'm happy to accept the Unionists in a new Ireland. The Irish flag is a design of peace between green and orange. Most people don't seem to realise this. Irish people on the island of Ireland should be proud of our history and heritage. Not have to hide it so the Unionists don't get upset. They would be joining us. Not us joining them.

[@jonathanbuzzard1376]

That presumes that a united Ireland comes about by the North being absorbed into Eire. Historically and practically that is unlikely to be acceptable to much of the population in Northern Ireland and would be a source of conflict for a long time. The more pragmatic approach is change on both sides that is voted for separately by both sides to accommodate everyone.

[@barryryan14]

@jonathanbuzzard1376 The Republic is 5/6 of the island and population. They need to integrate more than we do but certainly happy to make some concessions. After all. We're only regaining control of stolen land anyway. The Unionists who's ancestors were planted in the North can see sense and join a secular Ireland in Europe or drag their knuckles and cause another troubles.

[@arthurgoodness7865]

@@jonathanbuzzard1376well historically and practically….who really cares about what the people in Northern Ireland want. They couldn’t agree on the colour of…grass, so they will never reach a stage where they all agree on a united Ireland. Ireland should put it to them with a “like it or lump it” approach. Does Ireland need unification? If the Irish people are asked for concessions, gestures of appeasement, then I think it would be very hard to get support from the Irish for unification - I for one wouldn’t support it.

[@corny165]

@@barryryan14 It's funny how you characterise Unionists as knuckle draggers while spouting the backward dogma about stolen land. Actually the majority in the comments and the poster of the video are guilty of exactly the same thing. It's such an obvious double standard. It is time to live in the now but both sides need to live in the here and now. The English don't complain about Saxon migration in the early middle ages or French invasion in 1066. They don't cling to a Romano British or an olde English identity. The Germanic tribes and the Normans forged a new English identity through conquest but history doesn't judge it illegitimate. It should be the same deal for Northern Ireland. The plantations shaped the culture of a large population there but they've every right to it. All the shite about stolen land is exactly that... shite. I'm from Dublin and i don't want to see a united Ireland. I'd passionately campaign against it if it was on the table. I recognise that it is hard for disparate cultures in Northern Ireland to come together but maybe the starting point is acceptance of their differences. A realisation that maybe it's not best to strive for what you want because you'll polarise the other side. Maybe if everyone (and i'm pointing the finger at people like you and not just the Unionists you think i'm pointing the finger at) adopted that mindset a new identity of 'Northern Irishness' would emerge, completely divorced from Ireland and Britain.

[@PhilipOsborne-rz9eu]

How about we keep the union flag I bet you won't agree to that

[@michaellawrence7570]

Great video and analysis as always Max

[@TheAnthraxBiology]

He was talking in the context of a united Ireland though, that's why he referred to "new, not an absorption" - because some people make out that reunification will simply be the 6 counties joining the 26, and others point out that we need to think of it as a coming together and remaking of the country which might mean a certain political restructuring eg. keeping Stormont where it is and possibly creating other regional parliaments. There are many more things that have been mentioned as part of the process but that's just one. I agree with this but I would not be in favour of any downplaying of the horrors committed in the name of colonialism, allowing the orange order to continue its marches, and our flag LITERALLY REPRESENTS UNITY BETWEEN THE COMMUNITIES. That's why there's orange on it! It is not a hateful flag or one of domination like the Union Jack represents the unconsensual "unity" of the three kingdoms. Unionists can bring up "bUt tHe iRa" as much as they want but they must be reminded that they would not be here without their ancestors who are by today's standards war criminals. They also should be reminded that the biggest immigrant group in Ireland is British and the second biggest religion is Protestant, neither of which have ever felt threatened. In fact they continued being more privileged than the average Irish Catholic post independence (although the gap closed in the second half of the twentieth century). Ireland is a place for anyone willing to accept its culture and customs, and they can continue practicing their culture here too! But celebrating colonialism is not culture. Music, food, language, folklore, literature - this is culture, not the celebration of conquest and genocide, and that's where I find many concessions older unionists ask for to be unacceptable. I think we can get there, but we cannot make Ireland wholly British just to reunite or else we'll be looking back and wondering why the hell we even did it in the first place. It's already bad enough that we don't speak our language.

[@darthvadar441]

Tick tock it's only heading one way change is irreversible as the tide coming in.

[@susangavaghan]

Brexit made a united Ireland inevitable. I am glad this man has the intelligence to be aware of this and that resisting it and remaining stuck in the past isn't going to change it.

[@tom_oleary]

Great video. It truly feels like when not if. Now is also the right time to ramp up the dialogue and find language and symbols with which Unionism can feel more comfortable.

Nonsense. Their filthy culture of hate and oppression will be erased. They will have to deal with that however they like.

[@timyolanda166]

Well at least there is somebody from DUP at last showing a willingness to dialogue. That in itself is awesome..a sign of the times perhaps? Perhaps some folk seeking to not be out of a job on the future political stage? Okay, so Ireland should never have been split in the first place, by that imposed sectarian border. The 32 counties will inevitably merge into one single country again at some point. The UK (seemingly no longer wants the 6 counties, so why don't they simply do the decent thing and hand back what was never theirs anyway? Such a withdrawal would enable and trigger greater discussions between the other stakeholders on the island, which is , like it or not, the sovereign country of Ireland. There is recognised democracy, diversity and pluralism all over the island, so that "minorities" (like DUP in this case) need have no fear. Their voice can be heard in democracy. Now that said, it would be unrealiatic to think that a sovereign nation and culture, like is Ireland, should have to transform itself into something alien, only to satisfy demands of minority such as is the sectarian DUP intolerant of anything unless it matches their british unionist ideology. None the less even that minority group is as welcome as any other ..but welcome to IRELAND - the 32 county Ireland. Btw, nobody in any of the 32 counties today is the same as +100 years ago.....the irish society has evolved hugely over that time. Alas, some people who Don't Understand Politics (DUP) are entrenched in a stale "mind set" that no longer exists. But, wanting to be optimistic and positive , from this video there is a glimmer of hope, if more people like this Mr Wallace begin to speak up and at least show some openess toward having conversations. Conversing is a first step toward decision making.

[@seangalbraith5286]

Both my parents were born in Ireland because of this I take an interest in Irish History and Politics. During the GFA Discussions I wrote to the Northern Ireland Office and suggested that the North might be treated as Hong Kong and returned to the government of the Republic in 100 years giving time for those who want to be part of the UK to be relocated etc.etc. Any thoughts ???

[@PhilipOsborne-rz9eu]

What part of Ireland north or south you call Ireland there's North and soutj

[@philipdclarke5657]

Anyone who knows Ireland today, will recognise that Ireland renews itself every day. Ireland today is an extremely cosmopolitan, and liberal society comprised of peoples from all over the world. People from the north of Ireland have nothing to fear, and a lot to contribute.

[@andrewcooney2387]

I am going to report you for your intelligent and honest opinion. And yes you are correct in what you said

[@fitzerelli1]

And many of us don't like liberalism or multiculturalism, so we need to unite to stop it and save our island

[@philipdclarke5657]

@@fitzerelli1 Ah Fitzy, you need to take your head out of your ass, because uniting Ulster Scots with the native Irish is promoting "multiculturalism".

[@donalryan2429]

Does the republic really want this crowd?

[@ClannCholmain]

My fellow Irishmen and women north of the border have being waiting for this moment to happen.

[@Dreyno]

No. And the more people hear from them, the less accommodating they will be of a minority of mouthy bigots who hate them and everything about their culture.

[@loneprimate]

Why not? They wanted the Civil War anti-treaty crowd in Cork, after all. Nothing's easy but people usually settle into a new reality if it isn't blatantly oppressive.

[@edwardandrews4087]

In a few years you'll have no choice. the deal will be done

[@johnkirwan1777]

Too much of a headache. the Unionist's are unable to stand on their own two feet, they have been getting everything handed to them.They would be a very hard lot to please. What would they have to offer the people of the R.O.I.?

[@loneprimate]

I think the ship has sailed on Scottish independence. They blew their chance in 2014, the English clearly have no intention of relaxing their effective veto over another referendum, and Sturgeon quitting has let a lot of air out of the balloon. I don't expect to see it.

[@angusmckenzie9622]

@loneprimate Scotland is subsidised by England in the Union. It would have to apply to join the EU, no guarantees there. The Republic and Scotland had similar population numbers but, now, dramatically different economies. In brief, by growth and GDP, Ireland earns its spot, Scotland's less globalised economy might have catching up if it applied for EU membership alone. Scotland would have been mad to have left the Union

[@davidlally592]

Mm re the Scottish 2014 indep ref, the then UK Govt said if Scotland goes its own way, the UK Govt would then block Scotlands EU membership. So the Scots voted (just) to stay in the UK. But 2 years later England and Wales, by the skin of their teeth voted Brexit, dragging Scotland (62% Bremain) with them. No wonder many Scots are mega- furious with perfidious Albion..!

[@adrianduggan4739]

Northern Ireland right now is a ticking timebomb. There’s no government, and civil servants can only make so many small cuts to budgets - most departments are running over budget, which means that even with the subsidies from UK government, they’re running about a 1 billion pound budget deficit at the minute. Alongside that there are serious issues in the health service, there is scary reports of lack of capacity to meet electricity demands this winter, meaning potential rolling blackouts, the commissioner of their police force has resigned, the UK government has said it will not provide any more money to get a government up and running - so as long as this UK government continues ignoring the problem of devolution failing and keeps their lassiez faire attitude and as long as the DUP remain outside of stormont, Northern Ireland is looking more like a failed state. Then you look down south and you see a government that sure isn’t amazing, and has its own issues, but actually seems to care a little about the affairs of the North, and also is growing to potentially have a budget to support it and any rational person would ask are they better off?

[@thomasreilly6362]

The Government in Dublin are paying for the training of nurses and other medical staff from Northern Ireland NHS. The new bridge in Belfast is being paid for by Dublin. The ESB are providing a second high voltage cable connecting NI with the rest of Ireland. Agricultural produce is being processed from Northern Ireland in the Republic.

[@Tay12345]

Yes. The UK needs to help NI and join the EU ASAP before the SNP trick Scotland into leaving brexit-style and then we end up in even worse crisis!

[@thomasreilly6362]

@@Tay12345 The gene of independence is out of the bottle in Scotland. The English fooled them into remaining in the British Union now they are paying the price of such foolishness. They won't be fooled again.

[@Tay12345]

@@thomasreilly6362 the politicians fooled Britain into voting for Brexit. The people of Scotland won’t be fooled again

[@AlanWarrenBelfastArchitect]

Calling NI a time bomb is perhaps over egging it. The local economy is doing better than most UK regions. The DUP are on the road to nowhere. They may lose 2 seats in the next general election. Let them stew in a broth of their own creation. The way forward is better cooperation on the island of Ireland. That may result in a new and United Ireland, or it may not. Paradoxically, better relations and less of the, "NO, No, Never," may actually be a better counter to the likes of Sinn Féin.

[@paulherlihy9290]

You are right, not everyone in the party are Headbanger's (to use your parlance) however it is the ones that are that are the problem

[@Dreyno]

And they’re mostly at the top of the party.

[@amcc5887]

Ĝreat share max,as a 27 year irish guy i think a lot of irish people would welcome a new Ireland 💯 %

[@williampatrickfagan7590]

As Peter Robinson said about 15 years ago it's time for the Unionists to start talking a out a Unionited Ireland. The longer they leave it the weaker they become. The demographs are against them. The Unionists could all travel to Westminster in a people carrier. They also have lost the First Minister s job to Sinn Fein.

[@jdfiend]

Half of unionists haven't been voting

[@klausschumacher7126]

Federal Republic of Ireland would be an alternative. Look at how it works in Germany. As a German born in Cologne area we accept Saxony, Bavaria and other Staates with an unspeakable accent as Germans and living in harmony together. Bavaria has its own crazy party called CSU which is similar to the DUP in NI. Last but not least Bavaria was a Kingdom too or is without King.... because you can read it on the Border sign when you enter the Freistaat Bayern. Maybe it will work in Ireland too....

[@paulthomas8262]

Federation is essential becuase structurally there are major differences, council tax, municipal service. Also the west of Ireland the south of the ROI are also lack some representation so it wouldn't just integrate Ni but improve representation over Ireland. What I would be opposed to is Lebanon model where there are sectarian portioning within the government. However this discussion needs to also happen in the ROI there hasn't been enough though made to planning an structural changes. Also huge civil service in NI which woudl be largely not needed for the small population.

[@davewilson9738]

As with many things in life, the people in power do not represent the majority's feelings or aspirations. I think and hope it would be great for Ireland/Northern Ireland.

[@tal-lancer]

Well if you listen to people like Gregory Campbell, the very notion of a 'new' Ireland is just as anathema to them as a 'united' Ireland, because they don't see themselves as Irish at all - they are British. Perhaps he doesn't represent the majority of unionists (I would certainly hope not) but there are a significant amount of people who feel that way. They won't accept anything other than being 100% British, to hell with being able to choose between being British, Irish or both. The more important question is whether those kind of people are even worth courting.

[@geoffpoole483]

Former territories of the Habsburg Empire became new states with significant minorities. For example Slovakia has a large Hungarian minority whose rights are constitutionally protected and there's a region where Hungarian is the language of the majority. However, Slovakia has a land border with Hungary and the region's history is markedly different from Ireland's. If/when Ireland reunites the people of Northern Ireland will have to be comfortable with the transition.

[@niallodonnell7827]

He most certainly does represent the majority of Unionists

[@anthonyquinn5058]

I think a new flag and anthem is a big ask...appeasement to unionism is making a rod for your back

[@PhilipOsborne-rz9eu]

Aye everything will be OK for. Unionists if they dance to. The Republican tune

[@dan438]

As a German, let me tell you, that Absorption would mean the people being absorbed will be forever resentful. That's what happened to us. People in East Germany still bitch and moan about how great the Democratic Republic of Germany was... even though it sucked so much, people risked dying to flee that place.

[@uweinhamburg]

Bur still, the bigger ad richer part absorbed the smaller and less developed part, and nobody talked about a new Germany. The West delivered the currency, the flag and the constitution. It will be the same with Ireland. Something new could develop if Ireland (the free and united Ireland) would merge with Scotland in some form of Celtic Nation, which could be a shortcut for Scotland to become a part of the EU (should the EU play along).

[@roisinmalone3015]

Germany's circumstances are very different to Ireland's

[@Dreyno]

I worked with a guy from Saxony and a guy from Berlin and let me tell you, if I had to deal with the amount of Ossis jokes the guy from Saxony had to put up with, I’d be resentful too 😂

[@uweinhamburg]

@@roisinmalone3015 Nr.1 Germany is not an island with natural historical borders! Germany has had hundreds of geometries (borders) over the centuries - there is only one Ireland!

[@angusmckenzie9622]

@dan "As a German, let me tell you, that Absorption would mean..." Good point, Dan. The level loyalist minority would do a bit more than bitch and moan, if history is anything to go by. Presumably, that's why Sinn Fein advocates a New Ireland rather than absorption of Northern Ireland.

[@windowman929]

The Catholics outshagged the prods 😅

[@Irish780]

Is was always going to happen look at usa 40 million irish Americans 😅

[@PhilipOsborne-rz9eu]

Aye your right you did outshag the prods we were to busy working while you lay about claiming British money

[@mfdoyle5879]

M.R Thompson speaks Great Sense. Unionist Heritage will be protected and will Flourish in the New Ireland. Real engagement by the Unionist will be welcomed. The design and structure of the new Ireland will be for the Unionists as well as for all the rest coming together.

LOL, not a chance.

[@DonPaulColeman]

If They Are Actually DEMOCRATIC ( as They Claim) THIS MUST HAPPEN NOW! The VAST MAJORITY of Ordinary People on the Island Support This. A Simple DEMOCRATIC Fact!

[@user-vl7qb5zf1q]

Well said Wallace Thompson.

[@freddieb3537]

The march is slow but unyielding. Ireland will merge into one. It never should have been split.

[@tisFrancesfault]

IT was split under democratic desires. Unless you are an anti democrat, you should revise your position.

[@amcc5887]

💯 %

[@gothicgolem2947]

It should have been split it was the will of the people

[@anthony64632]

​@@tisFrancesfault,it was not split under democracy. It was stolen land

[@anthony64632]

​@gothicgolem2947 , North Ireland should be handed back to Ireland

[@roisinmalone3015]

Inevitable, alright heading that way. Though Re research, Unionists priorities are 1. A secular state with integrated education. 2. That they can keep a British only identity within a United Ireland. 3. A Health Service free at the point of access Flags and anthems are not in their top priorities. Plus re research also, keeping the Irish flag is very high amongst Irish people in the South. And for a United Ireland to be successfully voted for we need the plan to contain elements that the most people possible will vote for. Re the research done, a United Ireland plan with replacing the Irish flag would not be voted for in the Republic of Ireland currently

[@georgebrowne5935]

The Tail has to stop trying to wag the dog. This is Ireland, NOT Britain.

[@-DC-]

The British Government doesn't care about the English never mind NI its possible that Unionists are waking up to the fact they'd be dumped like a hot potato by the British Government as would all of NI onto Dublin's lap if it was Politically Possible.

[@RebelofIreland]

A new Ireland. Call it a second Irish republic. With a new constitution and bill of rights that reflects unionist concerns and builds in safe guards for them Also provide that the constitution must be redrafted and upgraded every 100 years to meet technological and societal changes. Call them the third Irish republic, then fourth and so on as the time passes. Vote on these in an all island referenda. Should be a recipient for success ….but like Armstrong and Miller….what do I know.

[@PaddyDoesasia-bj3bb]

No

[@pacman1412]

I would welcome a new flag and a new anthem if it meant the legal and symbolic reunification of Ireland. They are literally just a piece of cloth and words. Ireland is not represented by them, it is represented by people.

[@aor3220]

The idea is the flag and anthem represent the people - they're are symbols chosen by the people to encapsulate something of the spirit of the people. So it's not just a piece of cloth

[@pacman1412]

@aor3220 I understand the symbolism, but to expand on my previous comment, when Irish culture is spoken about abroad, people don't speak about a flag or a national anthem, they speak about the friendliness, the welcome, the fun that Irish people exude, not a flag or a song. The way we behave is more representative of Ireland than a flag or song.

[@aor3220]

@@pacman1412with respect that's just stating the obvious. I don't like it when people say it's just a piece of cloth because that's suggests it doesn't matter - that may not be your intent but it does sound that way. Also what will happen in the near future is unionists will make totally unreasonable suggestions as to what to change the flag to - Such as there should be a little union jack in the flag like new Zealand or Australia - and it's important people down south do not pander too much to them in order to achieve reconciliation

[@pacman1412]

@aor3220 I'm not saying the flag doesn't matter, what I'm saying is that there are more important things that matter more, i.e. a united Ireland. You might say, why can't we have both and the problem I see with that relates back to your original statement around the symbolism of the flag and anthem, they wouldn't have been chosen by the people of the island, only some of the people. We need an Ireland that feels like home for all of the population. Just my opinion. With regards the second point, I think we would need to reach common ground, I don't see a union jack on the flag as being common ground.

[@aor3220]

@@pacman1412 well unfortunately you can't please all the people all of the time and some suggestions made by unionist commentators will fall at the first hurdle and it's ok for the majority population in Ireland to say to unionists "no you're not having a union jack on the flag, and no we are not joining the commonwealth so the Irish defence forces can march in Commonwealth parades alongside the British army in London. My advice to people down south is to be mindful of any politician, journalist starts to call you unreasonable or even sectarian for telling Unionists where to go when they make ridiculous suggestions.

[@johnnyrocker7495]

Wallace is an OK guy. Too rational for some of the DUP hardliners but he's a front-runner in common sense and reality. Always struck me as a pretty decent human being too. We need more like that.... on either side.

[@robertmaher377]

Instead of Ulster says No , it could be Ulster says Maybe....?

[@niallmartin9063]

Holy shit. Wasn’t expecting that from a founder member. Significant

[@tombattisti8682]

With respect, how does a small minority on the island get to dictate the terms of a new Ireland. A case of the tail wagging the dog. Completely understand the idea though.

[@Dreyno]

There was an appetite to make them feel welcome in a United Ireland in the last couple of decades but the last few years have hardened public opinion against appeasing them since they’ve made it clear they hate everything and everyone Irish from the pits of their black hearts.

[@PaddyDoesasia-bj3bb]

They don't

[@edwardandrews4087]

When it has all the money and owns all the land. The rich dictate to everyone the world over

[@edwardandrews4087]

But here in Ireland the GFA will dictate the terms of a new Ireland. Read what your government signed up to passed by referendum.

[@MarkL-we8uk]

Allowing it to be socially acceptable to sing "Oh A up the 'Ra" or trying to forcefeed the Irish language will only push them further into their entrenched position. I speak as a born and raised Catholic from South of the Border in Ireland

[@LL-vk9zc]

In denial about Brexit, in denial that NI is not in the least bit important to Britain, in denial that Darwin was correct. In denial that 1980s furniture is ugly.

[@conchronic]

New ireland already exists in Papua new guinea (sorry for the pedantry). Maybe a New old ireland ? 😀

[@renniks1975]

Yep, I was just going to say New Ireland already exists - next to it is New Great Britain. You could always drop 'Republic of' and call the 32 county 'new' country Ireland

[@candidaprout560]

Good evening Max and all here. Johnson didn't care about northern Ireland when he announced the oven ready. Have a nice evening Max and all here

[@edwardandrews4087]

Just like IKEA the cooking instructions came in German

[@Mr-Foad]

Religious and the English (later british) establishments have caused so much chaos, hatred and division all over the world. Looks like people are finally waking up and realising these 2 things have wrecked their country. How many people have died because of these 2 things? It's about time we finally recover from this and move on.

[@Tay12345]

🤦🏻‍♂️

[@bakerzermatt]

Would a 'New Ireland' need to change its flag? Weren't protestants already incorporated into the flag with the orange bar on the tricolor?

[@kevinluby4783]

Tricolours as national flags are two a penny, the ones that stand out tend not to be tricolours, I'd be open to a gold harp against a green background. I'm also not in favour of pandering to Ulster Unionism because they'll always find a reason to have a problem with something they see as Irish.

[@bakerzermatt]

@@kevinluby4783 True, a tricolor isn't particularly exciting, and Ireland's has the additional disadvantage of resembling the Italian and Ivororian flags. Still, I like the idea behind it. Instead of the green harp flag, they decided on the tricolor on which both 'green' and 'orange' Irish identities share a flag in peace (white).

[@edwardandrews4087]

It's a bit like the St Patricks cross on the Union Flag. Nobody ask the Irish did it represent them. I was always a bit resentful about it, didn't represent me in any form. They tried to get the kids to fly it at St Patricks day parades in the north. It didn't last long most fly the tricolour. The St Patricks flag still doesn't represent the Irish

[@bakerzermatt]

@@edwardandrews4087 Interesting point. I admit I never much thought about the St. Patrick flag beyond it joining the Union flag in 1801. Was that flag (the red diagonal cross) ever much used before? Was ever used much by itself after the act of union? When I think of possible Irish flags, I think of green with a harp or shamrock, celtic knots, or the famous tricolor.

[@edwardandrews4087]

The green and the harp would be my one, United Irishmen flag they had good ideals@@bakerzermatt

[@ClipKingZone]

THIS WILL ALWAYS BE THE IRISH FLAG 🇮🇪

[@colinthompson3111]

Excellent video. Sorry, Max. My father told me to never trust a Thompson.

[@ClannCholmain]

Their machine gun was revolutionary and first used by the Irish in the war of independence. The first test of the Thompson in Ireland was performed by Irish Republican Army unit commander Tom Barry, of the West Cork Brigade, in the presence of IRA leader Michael Collins. They purchased a total of 653 units, though US customs authorities in New York seized 495 of the units in June 1921. en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thompson_submachine_gun#:~:text=The%20first%20test%20of%20the,the%20units%20in%20June%201921.

[@tophetheloaf]

Thanks for letting his voice be heard for me it is good for the people and good for Ireland

[@lrdisco2005]

Is it not better to be for something instead of against everything. It is only a matter of time, and brexit has only accelerated the process.

[@sm-xd1wr]

Does anyone in unionism understand the significance of the Irish tricolour? Maybe many on the nationalist side don't either. The National Flag of Ireland, a tricolour of green, white and orange, is intended to symbolise the inclusion of and the aspiration for unity between people of different traditions on this island. The flag is twice as wide as it is high. The three colours are of equal size and the green goes next to the flagstaff - why should that aspiration threaten anybody?

[@edwardandrews4087]

Is this an episode of fun with flags

[@stephenconway2468]

The constitutional options are quite extensive. The keys are respect and pragmatism.

[@Stephno86]

The flag will stay the same, our antum will stay the same, our house our rules

[@arthurgoodness7865]

Agree 100%

[@johnoreilly501]

As an irish man seen both side of coin am catholic worked witn unoinist they denfed me and i dended them i understand strong feelings but we have to go forward and embrace each other it wluld be the best for us

[@kevonslims7269]

The current DUP will disavow him asap..

[@genghisthegreat2034]

Correct.....he's a stalking horse to entice out the younger " Lundy's " who'll be marginalised as soon as they endorse any part of it.

[@edwardandrews4087]

Now maybe they are just dipping their toe in the water, before they commit to jumping in

[@garnray8568]

IRISH REUNIFICATION NOW

[@tisFrancesfault]

If they can garner the votes, sure...

[@anthony64632]

​@tisFrancesfault no votes are needed as South Africa didn't vote for the land to be handed vack . Practice what you preach!

[@tisFrancesfault]

@@anthony64632 Que? could one clarify the point made?

[@anthony64632]

@@tisFrancesfault ,South African had no votes to decide whether to agree to keep or hand South Africa back as USA and UK forced it upon South African government to simply hand the country back with no voting so that should be the same to North Ireland to be handed back to Republic of Ireland without any votes!

[@tisFrancesfault]

@@anthony64632 Im sorry, but you still are not clear... what are you talking about? "handing back south Africa" doesn't make any sense, when, to whom? Regardless it was a self governing Dominion The UK had little control of it, and by the early 60s was an independent republic...

[@martinsmyth5580]

Why don't they move back to London right beside their king? Their plantation is over on the island of Ireland, but we know they love their king, so let's help them move back. English people are not these fanatics and are very welcome here as we are in England.

[@derricksmyth]

The transport infrastructure, could be even more inhansed, especially in the North West of the Ireland which is badly needed. The development there would create employment opportunities which would be great. I think tourism would also see a huge boost with tourists going to both Dublin and Belfast on the same trip.The health services of both the North and Republic would pool together with patients not being restricted to a limited amount of hospitals

[@verttikoo2052]

No need for a “new” Ireland 🇮🇪 Republic of Ireland exists so you don need to recreate it.

[@VectorTracker]

And that is exactly was unionists fear and you have confirmed it for them.

[@sockjuice8795]

​​@@VectorTrackerwhat are you talking about? Verti is correct. The ROI is a democratic country that respects all religions and ethnicities. Again you are deliberately getting it wrong. Have to nit pick don't you?

[@sockjuice8795]

Might as well be talking to a plank of wood as trying to get these eejits to see reason. Always playing the victim. Thanks for your support Verti.👍

[@VectorTracker]

@@sockjuice8795 okay well tell me why I am wrong

[@VectorTracker]

@@sockjuice8795 ??? you’re the one unwilling to listen not me 😅

[@brendancunningham2141]

I’m from the west of Ireland and I don’t want a sinn féin government either. A New Ireland sounds good to me.

[@rocarolan2003]

I assume you own your own home. The reason people will vote for SF is that they say they won't rely on the private sector to solve the home crisis. (Private sector has no interest in solving the crisis as it's in their interest). If you are voting for FG, FF then nothing will ever be solved.

[@roisinmalone3015]

Sinn Féin and Irish reunification are two different things

[@brendancunningham2141]

@@rocarolan2003 I am not in favour of a private sector led approach to solving the housing crisis. I have three teenage children growing up and I want them to be able to own their own homes so whether I own my home or not is irrelevant. As for who I vote for, I’m a left leaning Union member so you can work it out for yourself. The pickings are slim.

[@rocarolan2003]

@@brendancunningham2141 it really isn't for most people. If you own your own house(and not in negative equity) you are much more likely to vote the status quo. There are a number of parties that believe the government should be more involved in housing. I just hope that if you truly believe what you say you are voting for one of them and not FG and FF.

[@raymonddixon7603]

@@rocarolan2003 Do you honestly think that SF will solve the housing problem. You are a very simple man. The housing problem is a worldwide problem, and it will take more than any political party to solve. If it was that easy FF or FG would have solved it. Sure they would be guaranteed power forever if it was so.

[@victorbeauvois]

BREXSHIT REALLY WAS THE BEST RECUITER FOR A UNITED IRELAND 😂

[@mallon201]

They're not open to anything new, never, never, never, was always their cry. That's not to say that there haven't always been people within unionism who have been willing to have the discussion, most recent example being the previous first minister Peter Robinson. The Irish flag should stay as being now most apt in it's design. The national anthem I wouldn't mind changing to 'A Nation Once Again'. Dual citizenship should remain only to those born before unification. Pensions, benefits should be changed on a phased in basis. The sooner discussions take place the better. The issue is that no unionist would want to be seen to be involved in discussions as this would be political suicide, so probably best that a commission be formed to look seriously at all aspects of unification and report back to the people before any referendum is held.

[@blueguitar4419]

A third-way “new” Ireland is not acceptable when Ireland itself is already a pluralistic society. There is but one Ireland and the DUP will not be on terms to dictate the country change everything about itself on a whim. Churlish.

[@gerardodwyer5908]

Thanks, but no thanks. The RoI is modernizing quite nicely. The last thing the RoI needs is to create a "new Ireland" with fundamentalist "God fearing" unionists. The RoI has a rock solid culture and national identity. NI doesn't, as they say, cut the mustard. There is already a new Ireland evolving, a more cosmopolitan Ireland that is absorbing many new citizens and integrating their cultures.

[@RebelofIreland]

As someone who grew up in the republic, I find this sentiment disappointing. Please don’t let the partitionists cloud your thinking.

[@barryb90]

Yeah, lad a declining native population with importation of mass migration from problematic cultures which has not only caused a housing problem but inflated the market and limiting what people can and can't say as violent crime reaches new highs, Sounds great lad. As an old skool Irish Republican I've more respect for a Unionist that a treasonous globalist.

[@taintabird23]

I disagree. While Ireland has modernized well, there is already a New Ireland, it can and will have to create another New Ireland in the future to accommodate Unionism. Ireland should be well able to build a new country with a a minority, within which there are are other minorities who are quite socially liberal in their outlook I agree that Ireland has a strong sense of national identity and a culture that is inclusive. Unionism will have to redefine its own culture and identity within that context. Interestingly, a research by political scientist Prof Brendan O'Leary suggests that in a united Ireland, a new flag and anthem is the least of their concerns.

[@williampatrickfagan7590]

New flag could be the flags of rhe 4 provinces. That way the red hand of Ulster would have equal prominence

[@loneprimate]

Oh, God, what a dog's breakfast that would be. Your heart's in the right place, but what an eyesore.

[@williampatrickfagan7590]

@@loneprimate I disagree. Colourful and it would stick out. Like the Union flag Stars n stripes S Africa etc. Also the irish flag at the moment is often bastardised with graffiti or with discolouration the ORANGE IS often lime green.

[@patboland1650]

By complete accident NI is in an economic sweet-spot ie in The UK and The EU. Surely they should settle down stay exactly where they are and make a few quid. Really at this stage what is the benefit of a United Ireland. The day after it happens to the man on the street it will make no material difference.

[@thedarkhugheshughes2640]

32 county’s coming real soon

[@Evemeister12]

He knows a united Ireland is coming, but just can't yet bring himself to utter such words. The unionists will become too much of a demographic minority to have any power to prevent that.

[@tramorester]

It has to be a new 32 county republic for everyone, not a 26+6 free state coupled all our baggage and 400 years of division. Everything on the table flags , Anthems , Constitution etc , do it right or not at all.

[@arthurgoodness7865]

Then my vote would be for not at all.

[@robertallardice8119]

How many Unionist have got an EU passport!

[@paulathomas.graham7693]

We already have a United Ireland. The reason partition needs to end is because it's existence was a contravention of the most fundamental principles of democracy, which is the right to self determination. That is why partition was and is so wrong for so many reasons.