Ulster's opportunity

             As before, Unionist opponents of the Northern Ireland peace deal are quoted as saying they are British and want to stay British. Yet if you look  around Europe,  the qualities the British are known for are tolerance, the ability to laugh at themselves, an acute sense of irony, willingness to accept and implement negotiated agreements and above all, a commitment to democratic process. Do the Unionists recognise and cherish these qualities in themselves and will they work to sustain them as we try to on the "mainland"?

Undoubtedly, on a narrow interpretation, the Unionists have most to lose from the agreement as their 60‑year stalemated hegemony departs. But the opportunity they and all Ulster are being offered is the chance to stop fighting over pieces of the same historic cake and to co‑operate in sharing out a much larger cake, which, thanks to the EU, US,  UK and peace itself can provide everyone with  more: more jobs, more prosperity, more infrastructure, more future. Why settle for less when you can have more?

          Nick Russell, London, NW5

 

QUESTIONS

1. Match the following words to the definitions (2 points).

Willingness (4)                                                                          

Implement (4)                        

Cherish (5)       

Settle (12)

________________: Make an agreement about something, arrange something finally or satisfactorily.

________________: Carry out, put something into effect.

________________: The action of being ready or eager to help.

________________: Protect or tend somebody/something lovingly, care for.

 

2. Answer the following questions (1.5 points).

a. What=s the difference between British and Unionist opponents?

b. What opportunity is Ulster being offered?

c. What will they get if they become a single Ireland?