Ireland needs May as an ally - Changing times

When Theresa May yesterday became the UK’s prime minster, she also became the second female to gain the highest office in British politics.

The 59-year-old former home secretary could hardly take on the job in more turbulent times. After quietly supporting the losing ‘remain’ camp in the campaign, her challenge will be to strike a delicate balancing act between it and the winning ‘leave’ side.

How she performs will have a profound effect on Ireland’s future, especially if the border is reinstated, leaving this country as the only EU state with a land border between it and Britain. It is now vital for Taoiseach Enda Kenny to develop the closest possible links with a prime minister who is well known to members of the Irish administration.