Hello Lee,

On Wednesday February 03 2021 17:27, you wrote to me:

 MvdV>> The Brittish have choosen to no longer be a member of the EU.
 MvdV>> So they shouldn't whine if they have to follow the rules for
 MvdV>> non members.

 LL> The British claim to the northern part of Ireland will be relinquished
 LL> as the Republic of Ireland remains part of the EU. Catholics now
 LL> comprise a majority of the population, easily outnumbering
 LL> Protestants.

While I agree that The reunification of both Irelands is unavoidable in the
end, I think that a lot of water will have to flow through the Foyle before
that happens.

For starters: it isn't as simple as Protestants vs Catholics. Not all Catholics
are in favour of reunification and not all Protestants are against. While there
is substantial overlap, it is better to speak of Unionists vs Republicans. Als
laid down in the GFA, the people in Northern Ireland have a right to hold a
referendum about separating from the UK and joining the Republic of Ireland. If
a referendum were held today, it would most likely end in favour of a reunion.

Other than that, I think the present arrangement with Northern Ireland
remaining part of the EU Customs Union but politially remaining part of the UK,
with a border in the Irish Sea and no land border in Ireland is not a concept
that is going to work in the long run. 
In the end the Unionists will have to accept that this relic of the Brittish
Colonial Empire will come to an end just like all other relics of that era.
They will have to accept that they will have to choose between living in the
Irish Republic or move (back) to what remains of the United Kingdom.

I am afraid they won't let go peacefully. Old wounds will be teared open and
the "Troubles" may return. I hope not, I hope that those concerned will be
pragmatic enough to not let it come to that, but I am not going to hold my
breath..

I love Ireland. I really hope the transition will be peaceful.


Cheers, Michiel

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