In an interview with the Press Association, Ms McDonald said the clause around a border poll was the “beating heart” of the Good Friday Agreement. It states that the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland may order a border poll if it appears likely that a majority would vote for a united Ireland, but the circumstances for such an assessment have not been specified. Asked how this language could be used in convincing people to support a united Ireland, Ms McDonald distanced herself from the remarks: “It certainly wouldn’t be what I would say. While those elected to the Assembly and Executive “do their very best”, Ms McDonald said they do so “with one hand tied behind their back” due to underfunding from the UK Government. Ms McDonald: “We had big promises from Keir Starmer and from the Labour Party in advance of the election.

Source: The Herald December 23, 2025 11:29 UTC