Poll: majority support united Ireland

At least 62% of the population would vote for the unification of the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland in a referendum, a poll conducted by the Irish Times and Ipsos MRBI has found.

Respondents aged 25 to 34 were most likely to say they would vote for Northern Ireland to leave the UK and unify with the Republic, closely followed by those over 65.

While support for Irish unity was clearly in the majority, the results also revealed that it is not a pressing issue for most. Only 20% said a united Ireland was “very important” to them, and they consider it a priority.

Just 15% of respondents said they wanted to see a referendum on the subject held now, while 42%, the largest share, favoured holding such a vote at some point within the next decade.

The poll also found scant support for measures linked to a united Ireland. The creation of a new flag and national anthem, for instance, was opposed by 77% and 72% of people, respectively.

(Molly Killeen | EURACTIV.com)