Frances Black (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I thank all our witnesses for all the work they are doing. This meeting is very welcome. There is no doubt that we can all agree we have had in recent weeks very stimulating, productive and measured conversations about Irish unity. It is very important to build on this momentum. I agree with Mr. Eastwood big time. My concern has always been the criteria. Planning and preparing is absolutely vital. It was said that the Secretary of State can be challenged if he decides to bounce a referendum. I agree with Mr. Eastwood that one just never knows. If the British Government is willing to break an international agreement, God only knows what could happen. We do not know what the criteria are for calling a referendum, and it is vital we find out what the criteria are somehow. Whether that involves an onus on the Irish Government to try to work with and talk to the Secretary of State, I do not know, but it is absolutely vital. Is there some way we can find out from the Secretary of State about the criteria and what his deciding to call a referendum would be based on, or do the witnesses have any suggestions as to how we can do so?

I have a couple of other questions. Do they agree that a unified Ireland will be a member of the EU and that the European Convention on Human Rights would protect minorities and safeguard civil and political rights in a unified Ireland? In addition, more recently, Deputy Jim O'Callaghan published a paper with detailed proposals. What do the witnesses think of his idea of a new constitution for a united Ireland?

Finally, I know Dr. Renwick mentioned that he does not believe referendums to be imminent, but what is his definition of "imminent", and what is his belief based on, given that the Secretary of State refuses to outline the exact criteria for the calling of a referendum?

I have given the witnesses a lot of questions. I hope that is okay.