Sir, – The decision of the Government to establish two new citizens’ assemblies, on biodiversity loss and on an elected Dublin mayor, is welcome. That said, a glaring omission is any move so far by the Government toward a citizens’ assembly on the constitutional future of Ireland. The debate on Irish unity is widening and is now not only a national but an international talking point. It is vital that a broad platform is created and structured debate and dialogue take place.
We need to plan for a new united Ireland, including constitutional arrangements, the health service, education, economic and social development. A citizens’ assembly, representative of the people of the whole island, in all their diversity, would help chart the way forward and address these issues in detail, using research and analysis to inform debate and decision. You cannot argue on the one hand that it is premature to talk of an Irish unity referendum because of lack of preparation, and on the other hand fail to prepare with a citizens’ assembly. The time is now. – Yours, etc,
TONY McDARBY,
Dublin 15.