23 February 2018, Friday
By Elaine Murphy
elaine@TheCork.ie
McDonald to address major United Ireland conference in Cork tomorrow
Political News
Sinn Féin Leader Mary Lou McDonald TD has said that the important discussion on building an agreed future for all the people of Ireland will continue at a major conference in Cork tomorrow.
McDonald will address the conference along with Sinn Féin Vice President Michelle O’Neill and MEPs Matt Carthy and Liadh Ní Riada.
Liadh Ni Riada
Other speakers at the two panel discussions include Noel Whelan, Bill White of Lucid Talks, Dr Paul Burgess, Kevin Meaghar and Paddy Cullivan and John Douglas.
The discussions will be moderated by Kitty Holland.
Mary Lou McDonald said:
“Brexit has re-energised and reshaped the debate about a United Ireland. There are many more people talking positively about a United Ireland that at any time in recent years.
“A unity referendum is a central part of the Good Friday Agreement. Sinn Féin wants to see such a referendum in the next five years. We believe that such a referendum is achievable in that timeframe and we also believe that it is winnable.
“However, Irish Unity must be planned for and it must be worked for. Aspiration alone is insufficient. We need to build a mass movement and momentum for Irish unity. We must take nothing for granted.
“Of course we must also listen who those who don’t want a united Ireland. It is our task to persuade those people, sectors and communities of why it’s in their best economic and political interests to share power across this island.
“We must convince them that no one has anything to fear because we will shape and we will build the future together. That is why Sinn Féin’s series of conferences on this issue are so important.
“Tomorrow’s event promises to be an exciting and stimulating discussion and I would encourage as many people as possible to join us in Cork City Hall as we discuss how best to build a new, agreed, united Ireland.”
The conference will take place from 1pm at City Hall, Cork and registration will be from 12 midday.
