Elaine Loughlin: United Ireland debate needs planning, not just political slogans

Elaine Loughlin says meaningful preparation requires greater public engagement with the practical realities of constitutional change across the island
Martin dismissed Sinn Féin’s proposed bill, that would have directed the Government to produce a Green Paper on a united Ireland, as ‘not credible’. Picture: Liam McBurney/PA

Martin dismissed Sinn Féin’s proposed bill, that would have directed the Government to produce a Green Paper on a united Ireland, as ‘not credible’. Picture: Liam McBurney/PA

Sat, 11 Jul, 2026 - 01:00
Elaine-Loughlin
Elaine Loughlin

Sometimes discussions around a united Ireland can feel a bit like the lotto plan.

Most of us all know exactly how we would spend our winnings when the lucky numbers come out, we are full sure this will happen, we just don’t get around to the essential part — buying a ticket.

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