Sinn Féin leader demands referendum on Irish unity | Mary Lou McDonald interview

In this interview from Labour Party Conference, Mary Lou McDonald, President of Sinn Féin, delivers a powerful message on two of the most urgent issues in contemporary politics: the future of Ireland and the crisis in Gaza. Speaking to our team, McDonald lays out the urgent case for a border poll on Irish reunification, stressing that the Good Friday Agreement provides a clear democratic pathway for constitutional change and that momentum for a United Ireland is growing stronger than ever.

McDonald explains why now is the moment to give people in the north of Ireland the chance to decide their constitutional future, arguing that a border poll is not just inevitable but essential for building a fairer, more prosperous island. She calls on the British government, led by Keir Starmer, to respect this democratic right and begin preparing for reunification in a responsible and inclusive way.

Turning to international issues, the Sinn Féin leader also addresses the escalating crisis in Palestine, urging Starmer and the Labour government to stand up to Israel's operations in Gaza. McDonald condemns the ongoing destruction, displacement, and loss of life, and argues that Britain has a moral responsibility to act with courage on the global stage by calling for an immediate ceasefire, ending arms sales to Israel, and supporting Palestinian self-determination.

This wide-ranging conversation highlights how Sinn Féin is seeking to influence political debate not just in Ireland, but in Britain and internationally. For those following debates on Irish unity, peace in Gaza, and Labour’s role in global politics, this is an essential watch.

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