Fergus O'Dowd (Louth, Fine Gael) | Oireachtas source

That is not the question I am asking. The emphasis on a vote is fine but the preparation for that vote is key. I certainly believe in a united Ireland but the issue that arises is consent. Getting to a consensual position is critical work, regardless of what the majority may ultimately decide. We need to bring as many of those who would be opposed to a united Ireland with us and any consensual changes that happen must be very deep and thorough. Emphasis must be placed on the work of building consensus. This committee, for example, is open to all but no unionist has come before us, although we did have a very good debate with Mr. Paisley, MP, recently and are hopeful of progress vis-à-vis the British Parliament and this committee. We need a full and open debate, commissioned by all of us. We must be totally inclusive in that debate, although I am not suggesting that the witnesses were otherwise. We must build consensus on economic, social and political issues, including poverty and education, because if we do not address those issues, no matter what the outcome of the vote, strife, dissonance and upset in communities will persist.