The Workers’ Party has called on governments, both north and south, to facilitate a discussion on Ireland’s future by establishing an all-island Civic Forum.

David Gardiner, Workers’ Party representative for Palmerstown-Fonthill, said:

“We need to begin the process of dialogue and discussion on the future of this island sooner rather than later. These conversations must involve all sections of society, north and south, nationalist and unionist, as well as those who identify as neither”. 

“Concerns around housing, healthcare, education and taxation all need to be addressed. People in the north have valid concerns about losing access to the NHS, while some in the south might have concerns over an increase in taxation.”

“In addition, we have constitutional issues, including flag, anthem and language, which also require a serious debate. For these reasons, the Workers’ Party has called for an all-island Civic Forum to discuss these issues and more.”

“The government, be it Sinn Féin and the DUP in the north, or Fianna Fáil, Fine Gael and the Greens in the south, have a duty to the people of this island to facilitate an honest and open discussion on our future, and to make sure that we are all involved in shaping a positive future.”