Making Sense of a United Ireland
  • Published: 16 June 2024
  • ISBN: 9780241995778
  • Imprint: Penguin General UK
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 384
  • RRP: $29.99

Making Sense of a United Ireland

Should it happen? How might it happen?

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A landmark exploration of the future of Ireland by one of the world's leading experts on Irish partition

A century ago the resolution to Ireland’s long struggle for independence was a settlement that saw six of its northern counties remain in the United Kingdom while the other twenty-six formed the new Republic of Ireland. Since partition the unification of the two parts of the island has seemed impossible, particularly because of the bloody legacy of past conflict.

However, by 2030, if not sooner, the demographic and electoral advantages of Ulster Unionists – who identify as British – will be over. Political developments on both sides of the Irish border, and within Great Britain, make calls for unification referendums increasingly likely. Yet even those who want these to happen are not prepared.

Making Sense of a United Ireland is a remarkable exploration of this most contentious of issues by Professor Brendan O'Leary, a global expert on divided places, who has worked on the Irish question for nearly forty years.
  • Published: 16 June 2024
  • ISBN: 9780241995778
  • Imprint: Penguin General UK
  • Format: Paperback
  • Pages: 384
  • RRP: $29.99
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Praise for Making Sense of a United Ireland

Thoughtful and thought-provoking . . . [provides] invaluable insights into the choices and challenges that lie ahead

Oran Doyle, Irish Times

A tour de force, a highly readable, stylishly written, and essential book for anyone interested in a united Ireland, whether supportive, opposed or simply anxious about disturbing the peace we have enjoyed for 25 years . . . fascinating and ultimately optimistic

Irish Central

A must-read . . . [O'Leary has] thought through the implications of possible unity so deeply it would be foolish for anyone who seeks it or opposes it to ignore his book

Cathal Mac Coille

Impressively researched and well-argued . . . detailed and readable

Irish Independent

Brilliant

Brian Feeney, Irish News

Highly impressive . . . several books have been written about this subject in 2022 alone, but for sheer intellectual firepower O'Leary wins first prize

Andrew Lynch, Business Post

Should be required reading for everyone - including unionists - who are interested in and concerned about the fate of this island

Andy Pollak, DRB

A tour de force

Globe and Mail

Welcome and compelling

FT