I entirely agree with that article. It is only a matter of time. The Irish Protestant/Unionist has fallen from 80% to just over 50% over the past century. It is only a matter of time (another 10 years?) before it goes under 50%.
Provided the Irish government treat the Protestant minority with respect and protect their rights, which I have every expectation of, I would not be surprised if Northern Ireland becomes a part of the Republic. Probably something on the lines of the
Trentino-Alto Adige/Südtirol agreements between Austria and Italy, where the formerly Austrian region has autonomy and keeps most of its internal revenue, but is a part of Italy.
Northern Ireland was created at the behest of the Protestant majority as then. If the circumstances cease to exist, one could argue that its right to remain may cease too.
It would be symbolically significant if such a referendum (to unite with Ireland) took place in either 2020 or early 2021, with the unification occurring on 3rd May 2021 (the 100th anniversary of the
Partition of Ireland and the creation of Northern Ireland).
Of course the end of Northern Ireland could also presage the end of the CTA and (a united) Ireland finally being free to join Schengen.
I am not a lawyer or immigration advisor. My statements/comments do not constitute legal advice. E&OE. Please do not PM me for advice.
