The future of Ireland gives rise to interesting points of discussion

A packed theatre Balor Arts Theatre set the scene for an interesting debate on the future of Ireland last night. Donegal Sinn Féin hosted an event to afford the people of the north west their opportunity  to have their say on Irish unity and the future of Ireland. 

The event, Donegal People's Assembly was chaired by the former head of Údarás na Gaeltachta, Micheál Ó hÉanaigh and supported by Rosa McLaughlin. 

Among the panelists were Professor Terri Scott, Noelle Duddy, a former chair of Donegal Action for Cancer Care (DACC),  Paul Hannigan, Head of College at ATU Donegal, Toni Forrester, the Chief Executive of Letterkenny Chamber and the former CEO of Donegal County Council Seamus Neely 

Among the issues raised were infrastructure, health, education, community, equality, diversity and the future of industries. 

The manner in which Donegal's proximity to the border affected building, planning, business and economy was also discussed. 

On the issue of Brexit, Paul Hannigan said that one of the positives that could be derived from it was that it put the spotlight back on the border area. 

"We have to look at the border and how we deal with it," he said welcoming the discussion last night. 

Professor Professor Terri Scott outlined the importance of climate: "The world has changed. The pandemic has changed the world. What responsibility do we have to the next generation?" 

She also highlighted the importance of 'a unity of purpose' and how important it is to let young people leave, spread their wings but instill them with a sense of place so they return home. 

She spoke of the importance of having a medical school in the region and how this institution offers people the opportunity to study near home. 

She commended the level of talent there is in the north west region. 

Noelle Duddy highlighted the importance of access to health care in the region: "We will aspire to the ideal. We will strive to improve the level of healthcare in this region."

On questioned on the benefit of a united Ireland, Ms Forrester said that she feels that there are 'only benefits in an Ireland that work together. 

"It's been there too long for us," she said.

Mr Neely spoke about councils working together towards the betterment of communities both north and south. 

From the floor Aodh Ó Donaill spoke about the history of fishing in the island and how Ireland has given away its fishing rights. 

The value of wind energy for Donegal was also raised and the importance of not selling this asset. The importance of young people and how they can contribute and enhance the future of Ireland was also brought to the fore. The importance of having a railway which links Letterkenny to the western corridor was also raised. 

The scarcity of accommodation for students coming to the region was raised from the floor. Professor Scott outlined the Scandinavian version where students stay in dormitories as an example of how people can look at issues differently. 

Noelle Duddy said in a new Ireland we should have enshrined in the constitution the right to a home.