Northern Ireland

Congressman Richie Neal to discuss Irish unity in online event next week

US Congressman Richie Neal will participate in a `In Conversation' event during this year's Feile an Phobail
US Congressman Richie Neal will participate in a `In Conversation' event during this year's Feile an Phobail US Congressman Richie Neal will participate in a `In Conversation' event during this year's Feile an Phobail

US Congressman Richie Neal is to take part in a special discussion about the future of Ireland and Irish unity.

Civic nationalist group, Ireland's Future, will host an online conversation with the senior US politician next week.

The Massachusetts congressman has long been an advocate for the peace process.

He joined Speaker of the House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, on a trip to Northern Ireland last year to reaffirm the US's commitment to the Good Friday Agreement.

As chairperson of the Ways and Means Committee - which has authority over taxes, tariffs, and social security - Mr Neal holds one of the most powerful political roles in the US.

The Democrat used his authority to formally request the tax returns of President Donald Trump in April last year.

Earlier this week, Ireland's Future launched a new document on how Irish unity could become a reality.

It said a united Ireland could be agreed through referendums in the north and Republic, similar to those held for the Good Friday Agreement.

The group said the British government's "inept and disrespectful handling" of Northern Ireland during the Brexit negotiations has given greater impetus to a united Ireland.

Mr Neal will take part in an online discussion with writer and journalist Martina Devlin on Wednesday, December 9, at 7.30pm.

The conversation will be broadcast on Ireland's Future's Twitter, YouTube and Facebook channels.