Subvention Alarmism – by Carl Duffy

A new study has estimated that the cost of a united Ireland could potentially rise to 20 billion euros per annum. This figure appears to be quite alarming but given some of the ludicrous assumptions such as a new Ireland covering pension costs – this report needs to be treated with a large degree of caution.

Many are happy however to uncritically endorse such findings. This isn’t because of large numbers of Unionists suddenly becoming expert economists, instead the explanation is much simpler.

American psychologist, Jonathan Haidt, explores a concept known as post hoc rationalisation in his book, ‘The Righteous Mind.’ Effectively, what this means is that when people appear to be reasoning, what they’re actually doing is searching for anything to support their biases and initial instincts.

This is the precise reason why so many are prepared to take anti-united Ireland rhetoric at face value. Such reports won’t be scrutinised by those of a unionist persuasion, often the headline will suffice and the accuracy or standard of the report won’t come into play.

The more interesting question is why does it take so little to support the demonstrable failure of partition; whilst textbook conditions are expected to support reunification?

In ‘Making sense of a United Ireland; Brendan O ‘Leary explores the economic feasibility of reunification. He references Germany as a model and explains how their economic circumstances were much more challenging.

German reunification happened relatively abruptly, but it successfully happened, nonetheless. Notably, the six counties will be in better shape than East Germany was in 1990; and the South will be in a healthier position than West Germany. In addition to this, the economic models of both parts of Germany had much greater divergence than those of the two jurisdictions in Ireland.

If a partitioned nation with more challenging economic conditions can succeed in reunification whilst having less preparation, it is entirely reasonable to suggest a better prepared nation with stronger economies can also succeed.

But none of this matters to those afflicted with a lickspittle mindset. The proto-fascist northern statelet has successfully sanitised its image and many have unfortunately become too comfortable with this failed political entity.

The incessant normalisation of this rotten jurisdiction has fooled far too many into supporting its continuation. The reality is that it’s been an economic, democratic and societal failure of momentous proportions.

I don’t expect any British media outlet to emphasise these failures anytime soon, but dubious headlines will continue to advance the pro-Union narrative.

The real subvention figure will be far less than this report suggests, and the economic benefits of reunification will far outweigh any potential costs.