Towards A ‘Real Republic’?

Writing on the evening of the Sinn Fein special ard fheis Sean Bresnahan reflects on comments about a united Ireland made by Pearse Doherty.
‘We will deliver unity and a real republic in our time.’ So said Pearse Doherty of Sinn Féin, speaking earlier today at the party’s Special Ard Fhéis in Dublin. But is it the Republic that Sinn Féin are heading for? Talk of ‘continued devolution to Belfast’ into a supposed United Ireland, to include a forward role for the British state as a guarantor of unionism’s ‘Britishness’, makes it difficult to accept this at face value.

The strength of revisionist forces in Ireland and their impact on the party’s direction are not to be taken lightly. Nor can they be accounted for by choice, if welcome, words selected for the occasion of a party sit-in to rouse the faithful. Actions speak louder than words and that is what will count at the finish.

We will see where the United Ireland agenda heads and likely in the not-so-distant future, given the changes ongoing around us. Will it be to the Republic? I’m far from convinced at this point but if it is so — and if this is to where Sinn Féin as a party are really intent toward — then it will be interesting to see if they stay the course during the major ideological battle now speeding down the tracks.


Sean Bresnahan blogs at An Claidheamh Soluis
Follow Sean Bresnahan on Twitter @bres79