One of the key takeaways from a highly significant opinion poll released today by European Movement Ireland is that the idea of ending partition within the next decade is only supported by 24% of people in the Republic, compared to 45% in Northern Ireland. This indicates that the likelihood of such an event occurring is slim, which should prompt Sinn Féin and other proponents of a border poll to reconsider their stance.
The importance of this survey lies in its professional conduct on both sides of the Border, with a sample size of 1,200 in each jurisdiction. The questions focused on the Island of Ireland’s EU status seven years after the Brexit referendum, and the answers provided fresh insight into public opinion.
On the other hand, the Democratic Unionist Party (DUP), which exhibited questionable political judgment in handling the Brexit issue since 2016, should reflect on the attitudes of Northern Irish individuals towards the European Union, as revealed by the poll.
Notably, 70% of those in Northern Ireland who voted for Leave in 2016 now support Ireland’s continued EU membership. Moreover, two-thirds of Northern Irish respondents believe that the region has fared worse post-divorce, and the same sentiment is shared by over 50% of respondents from the Republic. Additionally, 64% of Leave voters in Northern Ireland believe that the region’s fortunes have declined since then.
It is hoped that the DUP can find a way to extricate itself from its misguided opposition to the latest Brexit operational compromise by the end of summer. These findings should create a sense of urgency in resolving this issue and encourage a more realistic approach.
Regardless of the future of partition on the island, the importance of maintaining functioning trade with the 450 million individuals in the other 26 EU nations is of immediate practical interest to all Irish citizens. Flags and postal box colors do not generate jobs and incomes, but unrestricted trade certainly does.
It is worth noting that European Movement Ireland has been active in Ireland since 1954, almost two decades prior to Ireland’s EU membership. While the organization has been transparent about promoting Irish engagement with Europe, it has also prioritized providing accurate information to the people of Ireland.
The survey reveals positive views on the EU among the Irish population, but it also highlights that 60% of individuals in the Republic harbor doubts about the current direction of EU policies. Furthermore, the poll explores the long-standing question of whether the Irish feel closer to Boston or Berlin, with the majority leaning towards Berlin in both Northern Ireland and the Republic.
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