Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland have reaffirmed their «right to self-determination» in a joint statement. The declaration came during the first in-person meeting of their nationalist First Ministers: Michelle O’Neill (Northern Ireland), Rhun ap Iorwerth (Wales), and John Swinney (Scotland).
The meeting took place on Monday in Cardiff. For the first time since the devolution process began, the heads of government from all three constituent parts of the United Kingdom are advocating for independence from the UK.
Political shifts in the United Kingdom
The nationalist leaders stated that «the Westminster era is coming to an end» and that «the political landscape on these islands is changing». During a press conference, John Swinney, representing the Scottish National Party (SNP), Rhun ap Iorwerth of Plaid Cymru, and Michelle O’Neill of Sinn Féin said their political movements are gaining significant momentum.
The leaders declared that they consider «constitutional change» to be inevitable. They called on the United Kingdom government to prepare, plan, and facilitate these changes within each of the three jurisdictions. John Swinney described the meeting as «a defining moment in the constitutional development of the United Kingdom».
Source: Clarín
