Ulster Unionist Party Leader Jon Burrows MLA has labelled a Fine Gael plan to develop a blueprint for a unified island as a pet project and says any constitutional change rests solely with the people of Northern Ireland.

Jon Burrows MLA commented:

“Northern Ireland is an integral part of the United Kingdom, and it is increasingly clear that many who aspire to a united Ireland are frustrated that support for constitutional change is no closer today than it was at the time of the Belfast Agreement.

“The constitutional future of Northern Ireland rests solely with the people who live here. I am confident in the case for the Union - a Union that strengthens our economic security, underpins our national security, and has helped secure the most peaceful and prosperous period in our history.

“Today, terrorism is at an historic low, people are free to identify as British, Irish or both, and citizens move across these islands without restriction. Most people are not preoccupied with constitutional upheaval; they are focused on improving public services, growing the economy, creating opportunity and making Northern Ireland the best possible place to live and raise a family.

“Simon Harris is entitled to produce whatever “blueprint” he wishes for Irish unity, but it is entirely reasonable to ask whether this is truly what was envisaged when the 1998 Belfast Agreement was signed - particularly when the Irish State amended its constitution and repealed Articles 2 and 3, removing its territorial claim over Northern Ireland.

“There is also a growing disconnect between sections of the political class and ordinary people. Recent polling in the Republic of Ireland showed that Irish unity barely registered as a public priority. At a time of significant pressures on healthcare, housing, infrastructure and the cost of living, politicians should focus on the real and immediate concerns of the people they serve rather than pursuing constitutional pet projects.

“My focus remains firmly on making Northern Ireland work better, strengthening our place within the United Kingdom, and unlocking the enormous potential of this part of our country.”