Sinn Féin’s success makes the breakup of the UK more likely | Martin Kettle

As a direct consequence of Brexit, a union between Northern Ireland and the Irish republic is now far more likely

Ireland’s remarkable general election clearly marks a turning point for the republic. By topping the poll last weekend, Sinn Féin has broken the old politics wide open. Mary Lou McDonald’s party will now be either part of Ireland’s new government or the main opposition. Either outcome marks an astonishing change of fortune. Only nine months ago, in last year’s European elections, Sinn Féin came a poor fifth in seats. Within living memory, the party was a virtual pariah in the south.

Related: Sinn Féin begins efforts to form leftwing coalition in Ireland

The UK left the EU two weeks ago, but in Northern Ireland the withdrawal agreement remains unfinished business

This article was amended on 13 February 2020. An earlier version said Bertie Ahern had suggested there would be a border poll within the next five years. This has been corrected.

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