Irish Unity Debate: Unionists 'Radicalised' by Brexit

Political unionism faces peril if it neglects 'small-u unionists' who are increasingly disengaged, a panel discussion on Irish unity heard. The event, held on Thursday as part of Féile an Phobail, explored factors influencing attitudes towards a united Ireland.

Brexit and Political Shifts

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Brexit and the possibility of a UK government led by Nigel Farage were identified as elements 'radicalising' some within Northern Ireland's unionist community towards considering a united Ireland. SDLP leader Claire Hanna told attendees that substantial numbers of new members, not from traditional SDLP backgrounds, are engaging with the party. She noted that identity is becoming 'less binding' and that people are 'excited to build something new'.

Ms Hanna cautioned that efforts are needed not only to secure a 'yes' vote in a Northern Ireland unity referendum but also for a parallel referendum in the Republic of Ireland. She pointed to a 'push factor' from political unionism, citing hostility towards Irishness, culture, and LGBT issues, which she said 'switches people off'. Furthermore, she highlighted a 'strategic disaster' perception regarding Brexit's management, making people 'open to persuasion'.

The SDLP leader advised against a 'flip of partition' mentality, urging instead for the co-design of a new Ireland. She praised the Republic of Ireland's 'incredible capacity for change' in ethnic and social diversity, suggesting the 'last big project' will be embracing tolerance of British and northern identities. Ms Hanna emphasised that reconciliation requires empathy and understanding of the significant change involved for many.

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Unionist Apathy and Abuse

Former UUP councillor Linzi McLaren shared that she has encountered abuse from some within the unionist community for participating in discussions about a new Ireland. Despite this, she stated that the 'potential she sees in a new Ireland for all the people of Northern Ireland and the south is so incredible that it is worth every second of the abuse I get'. Ms McLaren is prepared to endure such treatment on behalf of those afraid to speak out.

Ms McLaren described 'unionists with a small u' as feeling politically homeless because mainstream political unionism does not represent them. These individuals, she explained, find current unionist politics too extreme, have no interest in loyalist traditions, and are repelled by events like race riots and home burnings. Many are also apathetic towards politics, waiting to be convinced by alternative perspectives. She stated that forgetting these people is 'at political unionism's peril'.

Writer Claire Mitchell commented that many Protestants she knows are 'unity curious'. She characterised unionism as a 'project of political conservatism', suggesting she does not feel part of it due to personal beliefs. Ms Mitchell advocated for the unity movement to establish 'safe spaces where people can explore relationships without judgment'.

Ms Mitchell also referred to events like Brexit and the prospect of a Nigel Farage-led government as 'radicalising' unionists. She suggested that if such a government were to form, people would 'vote with their feet'. She believes the break-up of Britain is 'in progress', with similar feelings of powerlessness and a desire to reclaim democratic agency being experienced across England, Scotland, and Wales.