Abortion ban could draw a distinction with Republic and win non unionist support for Northern Ireland

(His article can be read here: ‘NI needs a pro Union group that will help in any border poll,’ October 23)

The article is imbued with a tribal mentality and consequently bears a flawed message; simply put, it advocates more of the same divisive politics that has bedevilled Northern Ireland since its inception.

Mr Robinson is suggesting the setting up of a mono-unionist propaganda unit (presumably to match mono-nationalist ones) that will make a case for the continuation of the Union.

Two things come to mind; first those considered to be non-unionists are to be excluded ie no nationalists, thereby excluding approximately half the population of Northern Ireland, and second, exclude the truth if it doesn’t fit in with a ‘unionist’ narrative, thereby storing up trouble for Northern Ireland into the future.

I think that Mr Robinson should reconsider his article.

What I suggest is that an impartial unit be set up, probably staffed by professional civil servants mainly drawn for Northern Ireland, but including others from elsewhere within the United Kingdom.

This unit will then look objectively at the facts pertaining to Northern Ireland within the UK and relay this information for the benefit of all people living in Northern Ireland who can then make their decision based on truth whenever a poll should take place.

Finally, if unionism wishes to attract non or mild unionist votes (even honourable ‘fenians’) in Northern Ireland, then let them be courageous and truly human and restore the right to life of those Northerners who are in the process of being born and are being condemned to death; that will put a great clear blue sea between Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland.

Northern Ireland will then be a beacon for good in the world.

Micheal O’Cathail, Fermanagh

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