Economist: Irish reunification would mean hefty tax rises or spending cuts in Republic

Shock of reunification would trigger a drop in living standards, Prof John FitzGerald told Oireachtas committee

Prof John Fitzgerald, left,  said the cost of Irish unity would depend on how much subvention would be needed for the North. File picture: Sam Boal/Rollingnews.ie

Foreign Affairs Minister Simon Coveney is to hold a meeting with British Northern Secretary Brandon Lewis in Dublin on Wednesday, amid rising tensions in the province.

The Dublin Government is keen to step up the level of engagement with the Northern Executive leaders and the British government following the ousting of DUP leader and First Minister Arlene Foster.