Taoiseach Enda Kenny has opened the door to a future referendum on Irish unity.

In a significant move, Mr Kenny on Monday called on the European Union to prepare for the prospect of Northern Ireland seeking to join with the Republic.

The Fine Gael leader said a future border poll is now a “possibility” in light of the decision by Britain to leave the EU.

Mr Kenny even likened the scenario to West and East Germany once the Berlin Wall was demolished.

“The discussion and negotiations that take place over the next period should take into account the possibility, however far out it might be, that the clause in the Good Friday Agreement might be triggered and that if there is a clear evidence of a majority of people wishing to leave the United Kingdom and join the Republic that that should be catered for in the discussions that take place,” Mr Kenny said.

“Because if that possibility were to happen, you would have Northern Ireland wishing to leave the United Kingdom, not being a member of the European Union, and joining the Republic which will be a member of the EU,” he added.

The Taoiseach made the remarks to reporters following his speech at the MacGill Summer School in Glenties, Donegal.

Online Editors