POLITICS AND THE CONSTITUTION

1.1 On the process towards future government

In the event of the current talks process failing, the British Government, in consultation with the Irish Government, should set up a special Commission to put forward views and recommendations. These should be the basis for further consultation with the political parties and, if necessary, for direct consultation with the people of Northern Ireland. This Commission should also consider how best the people should be consulted, given that simple majorities do not work in a divided society.

1.2 On future government

Given that majority rule in Northern Ireland is not a viable proposition, and the unionist community will not accept any administration that gives an executive role to anyone outside the United Kingdom, the following proposal is put forward. ‘Provided that Irish nationalism is legally recognised (see next recommendation), a government of Northern Ireland should be put in place, based on the principle that each community has an equal voice in making and executing the laws or a veto on their execution, and equally shares administrative authority’. This government should be free to discuss and negotiate its relationships, institutional and other, with the Irish Government.

1.3 On the legal recognition of nationalism

Recognising the nationalist community and its aspirations in law could start a process which would change thinking in both communities. ‘Parity of esteem’ between the two communities should be given approval, promoted and protected legally. Such recognition could be made operational at the highest level by an Act of Parliament. The Opsahl Commission recommends that the Government moves to examine the feasibility of drafting such legislation. It should be stressed that this legal recognition of Irish nationalism should not mean the diminution of ‘Britishness’ for unionists.

1.4 On the training of politicians

The Opsahl Commission believes there is a need for education and training for political leadership in Northern Ireland, as happens in the USA, Germany and Sweden. Such training programmes should be tailored both to present and prospective politicians and should involve the study of other democratic systems, and particularly those representing pluralism at its best; briefings on economics, the environment and other relevant issues; and community relations training.