Sinn Féin National Chairperson Declan Kearney MLA has welcomed plans by the Scottish Government to hold a second referendum on Scottish independence next year.

Declan Kearney said:

“I welcome plans announced today by Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon to hold a second referendum on Scottish independence in 2023.

“The people of Scotland have a fundamental, democratic right to decide their own future through a referendum. This decisive strategic initiative by the Scottish government now provides a road map for the Scottish people to determine their own future.

“Successive elections and polls have demonstrated a growing majority in support of Scottish independence and change.

“The Scottish First Minister has been clear, if the British government continues to block the right of Scottish people to have their say, the SNP will fight a general election as a de facto referendum. Either way the Scottish people will be given a democratic voice to have their say.

“Brexit has changed everything across these islands. Just like the people of the north, Scotland overwhelmingly rejected Brexit and voted to remain with the EU.

“The British government cannot stand in the way of democracy. The people of Scotland must have their say.

“At the same time the momentum for constitutional change in Ireland has never been stronger.

“The Irish government should now also act positively, and immediately convene a national Citizens Assembly on the constitutional future of Ireland. This would represent an important landmark towards securing an Irish unity referendum.

“In parallel with Scotland, it is time to prepare for change in Ireland, and plan for an agreed, progressive future, which is free from the reckless interference, and appalling disregard for democracy and international law of this British government.”