Letter: Shared sovereignty over Northern Ireland
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Sir: In his article in today's Independent arguing for shared sovereignty, Brendan O'Leary states: 'Shared sovereignty would also protect Unionists against the threat of demographic erosion - plainly evident in the latest census returns.'
The census of 1991 did not ask any questions about people's political opinions. It did ask about religious affiliation. Anybody who knows Northern Ireland would be aware that religious denomination does not equate accurately with constitutional aspiration, par-
ticularly in respect of Roman
Catholics.
Only when it is recognised that the majority of people in Northern Ireland do not fit neatly into one of two sectarian stereotypes can sensible discussions on its political future take place.
Yours faithfully,
LEONARD JARVIS
Lisburn,
Co Antrim
28 January
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments