SDLP to Unveil Economic Framework for United Ireland
The Social Democratic and Labour Party (SDLP) is set to launch its policies concerning an economic framework for a united Ireland on Thursday.
Party leader Claire Hanna will introduce a report examining how the economies on both sides of the border can be integrated in the event of a united Ireland, aiming to address challenges and maximize potential across both nations.
"We don't need to wait for any future border poll to start doing the things the make the economy work better for people," Hanna said.
Hanna emphasized the party's intent to reposition Northern Ireland not as a liability but as a valuable asset in a united Ireland.
"We seek to reframe the north not as some sort of pity party or an inevitable drain in a new Ireland, but as an asset."
Speaking on BBC Radio Ulster's Good Morning Ulster programme, Hanna remarked:
"Whatever your constitutional aspiration, there are things that we need to do now to have a better economy, and therefore better opportunities for people.
There are lots of opportunities, for example a joint all-Ireland infrastructure fund, shared planning on things like skills and the workforce that we could be doing now regardless of where we go constitutionally."
SDLP's Economic Proposals
The report outlines several proposals, including targeted investments in key economic corridors such as Dublin–Belfast and the northwest corridor between Londonderry and Letterkenny. These investments would focus on transport, housing, and innovation sectors.
The aim is to unlock the potential of these strategically important yet underdeveloped regions.
A proposed Joint Infrastructure Fund would facilitate the planning and execution of cross-border infrastructure priorities.
Additionally, the SDLP proposes establishing a targeted graduate return scheme designed to encourage university graduates to return, offering relocation support and incentives for employers to help combat brain drain.
The report also recommends devolving more powers and resources to local authorities, enabling them to play a central role in regional growth, housing, and regeneration.
"This paper is an invitation to plan responsibly, to think boldly and to build an economy that works for everyone who calls this island home," Hanna stated.
"The SDLP is ready to realise that ambition and work with others to make it a reality."
Hanna further highlighted the importance of this work not only for the prospect of a new Ireland but also for improving Northern Ireland and addressing everyday pressures faced by its people.
"This work is essential not only to building a new Ireland, but to building a better Northern Ireland along the way and tackling the real pressures people face in their daily lives.
We won't be able to answer every question about what the future will look like but we need to start those conversations now.
That's why the SDLP is bringing forward serious proposals around a Ministry for a New Ireland and an economic vision that allows us to take those important next steps."
