12. Deputy Michael Murphy asked the Minister for Public Expenditure, Infrastructure, Public Service Reform and Digitalisation if his Department has assessed the potential cost implications for public service pay and pension liabilities that would arise in the event of Irish unification. [62807/25]

Sentiment score: -0.10

To what extent has the Department assessed the potential cost implications for public sector pay and pension liabilities that would arise in the event of Irish unification? This is not a political question. It is a simple question of forward planning, good governance and having all the facts in the context of this important debate.

Sentiment score: 0.10

I support the long-term aspiration of Irish unity based on consent. However, if we are serious about this aspiration, we also need to be serious about the practicalities that come with it and the financial implications. Right now, there is little discussion about the fiscal implications of Irish unification, particularly disparities that exist in public sector pay and pensions, social protection systems, taxation, health and infrastructure. This is not a political question. It is simply a question of good governance and having all of the information. The Good Friday Agreement provides a democratic pathway for constitutional change, but that pathway requires facts, not assumptions. My question is simple. Has the Department assessed the potential cost implications for the State? If we want to be informed and want responsible debate, we must first establish a clear understanding of the potential financial landscape.

Sentiment score: 0.21

I am sure the Minister agrees there are huge disparities between systems North and South in public sector pay structures, pension liabilities, welfare supports in particular, and broader public spending. Any future settlement, whenever it might arise, will have significant financial consequences for this State. Ignoring that reality does not make it go away. All I am seeking, and what the public deserves, is clarity on whether the State has even begun to model these implications. If unity is ever to happen, it must be built on facts and not on vague assumptions or political slogans. My question is really about sensible and prudent long-term planning, nothing more and certainly nothing less.

Sentiment score: 0.11