Interdependence is the antidote to Northern Irish politics A policy of enhanced all-island relationships will build economic, cultural and political opportunity
Mon, Jan 11, 2021, 01:00 Peter Shirlow
The furthering of linkages between North and South through culture, environment and tourism can raise the levels of mutual dependence and assist in the avoidance of conflict. Photograph: iStock
Debate on the constitutional position of Northern Ireland is often presented as binary: the options given are the status quo or a Border poll, with the implication that the latter will, sooner or later, bring about Irish unity. But the facts on the ground suggest a third option, a kind of middle way, one that reflects the reality of lives as lived on the island rather than any abstract ideals or history: interdependence.