Fine Gael to develop 'blueprint' for unified island

Fine Gael plans to release a comprehensive blueprint for a unified Ireland this November at the party's Ard Fheis. Tánaiste Simon Harris announced the initiative, stating the document will define what a unified Ireland could entail in practical terms across political, economic, and societal spheres.

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We cannot be passive observers to change. Nor can we approach questions on the future constitutional status of this Island through slogans, sentimentality, or simplistic assumptions, as some other political parties on this island do.

The blueprint will delve into fiscal implications, public services, and potential economic opportunities arising from unity. Harris stressed that Fine Gael must engage with the island's future responsibly and respectfully, moving beyond slogans and simplistic assumptions that he suggested characterize the approaches of some other political parties.

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If constitutional change is to happen, it must be prepared for, carefully, honestly and inclusively.

"If constitutional change is to happen, it must be prepared for, carefully, honestly and inclusively," Harris stated. He emphasized the importance of listening to party members, people north and south, and "all traditions." Harris rejected the notion that now is not the time for such preparations, calling the conversation an "essential step in building a new and better Ireland."

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It must involve listening. Listening to you, the members of Fine Gael. Listening to people north and south. Listening to all traditions.

The work will be spearheaded by the Fine Gael Northern Ireland Engagement Group, with facilitation from Professor Deirdre Heenan. Harris underscored the party's responsibility to ensure discussions are informed, inclusive, and grounded in reality. He articulated Fine Gael's belief that "reconciliation, not triumphalism, that persuasion must come before politics, and that respect must be at the heart of every conversation." He described unity not as a singular event, but as a process demanding leadership, planning, and patience.

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This conversation is an essential step in building a new and better Ireland.