Looking to 2021: Out with the Old Covenant and in with the new?

There’s been considerable discussion of late regarding how we should mark the centenary of Northern Ireland next year.

In light of the Brexit fallout, demographic changes and declining electoral fortunes, maybe it is time to consider a new modern day Ulster Covenant for which the below form of words might be considered appropriate:

Being convinced in our consciences that membership of Her Majesty’s United Kingdom is in the long-term social, economic and cultural interest of Northern Ireland, and that a United Ireland would be disastrous to the material wellbeing of our citizens, irrespective of race, colour, or creed, we hereby pledge to use exclusively peaceful means to demand equal human rights and civil liberties for everyone, and to stand by each other in order to reject all forms of racism, sectarianism and discrimination.

We further recognise that our economic future lies outside of the European Union, while simultaneously endorsing exciting opportunities as a gateway to the single market.

Furthermore, we believe that our National Health Service should be treasured, cherished, and preserved, and in the need to replace educational apartheid with a fully-integrated system in our schools.

In sure confidence, we hereto subscribe our names and further, we individually declare that we have not already signed this covenant and solemn declaration.

Alan S Carson

Castlereagh