Frances Black (Independent) | Oireachtas source

I really appreciate the witnesses coming in today. It is great to see them here. Dr. Farry and I have worked together on the Oireachtas Joint Committee on the Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement. It is fantastic that he is here today.

I am really glad that the whole day has been devoted to hearing from non-nationalist witnesses, and I am particularly glad that we are recognising there is an increasing number of constitutionally agnostic people in Northern Ireland. The "other" is the quickest growing section of the Northern Irish electorate. It has just delivered the Alliance Party a truly historic performance in the most recent Stormont election. We need to better understand how the constitutionally aligned related to discourse around potential constitutional change, and how they can be included in such discussions in a manner that is really welcoming and productive.

I really believe that this is all about conversations. Even when we say the words "Border poll", I believe that everybody gets terrified. It is about planning, preparing, and planning and preparing properly. That is what this is all about. This is why these discussions over the past few weeks have been phenomenal. We heard from young people last week. We also had academics in last week. Listening to them and the work they are doing has been a real eye-opener for me. Some of it, to be honest, goes a little bit over my head but it is very powerful.

When Dr. Farry talks to the new Alliance Party members and voters, what is motivating their shifts from previous constitutional affiliations? That is the first question.

Power-sharing has broken down again and there may be another Stormont election on the cards. How do our guests think this can be resolved? Does the system of mandatory coalition need to be re-examined? Those are my questions. I am happy Dr. Farry and Mr. Campbell are here and it is great to listen to them.