A new poll has found that 68 per cent of voters in the Republic of Ireland believe the government should begin preparations for possible Irish unity. The Irish Times/Ipsos B&A survey, conducted through face-to-face interviews with 1,200 people across all constituencies on Monday and Tuesday of this week, also found that 57 per cent want referendums on unity by the end of the decade.

Support for planning does not translate into enthusiasm for all aspects of unification. The poll found that 64 per cent of voters have concerns about the potential costs, and only 17 per cent would be willing to change the flag, anthem or rejoin the Commonwealth to make a united Ireland more acceptable to unionists.

There are notable variations by age and gender. Among voters under 35, 74 per cent support preparations, but they show similar reluctance on compromises with 17 per cent in favour. Men are more open than women on changing symbols, at 22 per cent versus 13 per cent.

Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald said the poll adds momentum to the unity debate and shows clear public demand for planning. She stated that the government should publish economic and fiscal analysis, establish a Citizens' Assembly, and begin structured preparations. She criticised Taoiseach Mícheál Martin's refusal to plan, saying it is "increasingly out of step with public opinion".

The poll also covered immigration. It found 43 per cent view immigration as positive for Ireland, down from 46 per cent in May 2024, while 39 per cent see it as negative. There is strong support for tougher enforcement, with 81 per cent in favour, including deportations of those without permission to stay.

A separate letter to the Irish Times discussed criteria for calling a border poll under the Belfast Agreement. The writer argued that historical evidence of unionist majority support included an elected majority in the Northern legislature, opinion polls, and census data showing a Protestant majority. They said judicial rulings have devalued such indicators and leave the decision to the secretary of state's "whimsy".

The poll was conducted by Ipsos B&A.