SDLP leader Claire Hanna has told her party conference that the Irish government must create a ministry for a “new island” to plan for a future referendum on Irish unity.
The South Belfast and Mid-Down MP was speaking to the party faithful in Belfast where she told those in attendance that “today’s Britain is more and more at odds with our values."
She added: “Politics there (Britain) doesn’t have much to say about the people who live here. It barely has the energy to care.”
M. Hanna said it is now time for the Irish government to plan for a future border poll.
“And this means a challenge, especially to the government in the South,” she said.
“The shifting nature of politics means they cannot afford to be caught off guard. They can’t keep denying responsibility for planning for constitutional change.
“We’re not just a peace project to be managed and soothed. Many across this island are looking to Dublin for leadership that they have yet to provide.”
Hanna said this is not about an “arbitrary deadline” for a border poll.
“But it is about doing the work, the how and the why – so that when the time does come, we are prepared. We’re calm, we’re confident.
“Free beer tomorrow isn’t a manifesto. But neither is waiting endlessly for the fruit to ripen. So, my call is simple. To the Irish and British Governments – now is the moment to begin real planning. Give a New Ireland the focus it deserves with a new Ministry in the South.
“Create a defined structure for all island dialogue. A forum where all voices are welcome, but no one view can stop play. Preparing for a future which might be closer than many think.
“Conference, let us leave here determined to build something new – reconciled, confident, and ready for the world.
“A New Ireland and a new Northern Ireland along the way.”
