Re: The return of the dissident IRA
I have always maintained that anyone who now lives in the UK should be able to decide for themselves (on a democratic basis) whether or not they would like to become independent of the UK.
Currently, only the English and Welsh seem happy with the status quo.
The Scots, or at least those who voted for the SNP, would appear to be unhappy with their membership of the UK and would like to have an independent Scotland. Fair enough. Personally, I'd prefer Scotland to remain with us. Not only do I have a number of Scottish friends, but Scotland has been a distinct asset to the UK as a whole.
The Irish don't seem entirely happy either. I know some Irish people who are very nice, but it seems to me that there is still a great deal of anger in Ulster (and that includes part of the Republic, of course). Despite our glorious politicians giving the IRA everything they want, including a 'free pardon' whilst attempting to persecute our own soldiers who were doing the job they were ordered to do, they are still angry that the North is still part of the UK. They feel that the Anglican people of NI are wrong and that they should all be forced to become part of the Republic and, no doubt, be compelled to become Roman Catholics while they're at it.
As far as I'm concerned, both Scotland and NI should become independent of the UK if that's what they want.
Whereas Scotland is, as I said, beneficial to the future of the UK, I'm afraid that NI is a liability.
If it were a financially viable proposition, I'd agree to reimburse all the good people of NI who are proud to be members of the UK to relocate to the British mainland. The rest - the troublemakers, the terrorists and the whingers - are welcome to become part of a united Ireland.
I believe that they'll never be happy with anything. Let them cause trouble on their own island and let's be shot of them.