Varadkar and O’Callaghan cited in Sinn Féin unity document

By Cillian Sherlock, Press Association

Former taoiseach Leo Varadkar and Justice Minister Jim O’Callaghan are among those with “considered views” on Irish unity that are cited in Sinn Féin’s latest report on the “future of Ireland”.

Sinn Féin has hosted 44 assemblies as part of its Commission on the Future of Ireland since 2022, seeking contributions on constitutional arrangements, political and democratic structures and the role of the Irish government.

The party argues that the conversation on Irish unity is “well under way across society”, adding that conversations are being held across Ireland, the UK, Europe, Canada and the US.

The party’s latest report says: “There is significant work to be done to prepare for these referendums and the prospect of democratic constitutional change.

“Work must begin now so we can collectively ensure that the next phase of this process is managed in a constructive way.”

Mr O’Callaghan, a senior figure in Fianna Fáil, and Mr Varadkar are included in the report as among people who have “publicly expressed considered views on the various dimensions of constitutional change” – with the former Fine Gael leader also pictured in the document.

It says: “Their public contributions demonstrate the very significant public engagement on the issue.”

The list of people also includes Sinn Féin leader and deputy leader Mary Lou McDonald and Michelle O’Neill alongside Archbishop Eamon Martin, SDLP leader Claire Hanna, Fine Gael Minister of State Neale Richmond, Labour leader Ivana Bacik, and Alliance leader Naomi Long.

Last year, Ms McDonald said Mr Varadkar had discovered his “inner Shinner” after he called for politicians in the Republic to back the establishment of a forum to set out plans for Irish unity.