A major report on the prospect of a united Ireland has called for the North to be designated special status within the European Union, as well as for a commitment that there will be no return to passport controls along the Border.

The report by an Oireachtas committee also calls for the establishment of a high-powered task force made up of international security experts to address the prospect of violence unfolding as a result of Brexit.

It also says the eligibility of Northern Ireland for receipt of EU structural funds and other monies must be classified as a matter of urgency in order to protect the peace process.

The report, 'Brexit and the Future of Ireland: Uniting Ireland and Its People in Peace and Prosperity', was compiled by the cross-party committee on the implementation of the Good Friday Agreement.

The document makes 17 recommendations which are all made in the context of a referendum being held on a 32-county republic in the future.

It is likely to form a strong basis for any future campaign to secure a referendum on a united Ireland.

Those who have contributed to the extensive research include the former security adviser to the Obama administration, Michael Ortiz.

Mr Ortiz said further law enforcement measures were required as political leaders "grapple with the concept of a united Ireland".

Kerry Senator Mark Daly, the report's author, said: "We need to plan and prepare for a united Ireland, policy neglect seldom goes unpunished."

Irish Independent