North would 'reject' united Ireland

The vast majority of people in Northern Ireland would vote to stay part of the United Kingdom rather than join a united Ireland…

A 38 per cent majority of Catholics in Northern Ireland said they would choose to reject a united Ireland. Image: Google Maps

The vast majority of people in Northern Ireland would vote to stay part of the United Kingdom rather than join a united Ireland, a new poll has shown.

The BBC Spotlight poll also shows 38 per cent of Catholics in Northern Ireland would choose to stay in the Commonwealth, while 35 per cent would rather join with the Republic of Ireland.

A further 18 per cent of Catholics say they would not vote and 9 per cent say they are unsure.

Although the margin between Catholic voters is reasonably small, 79 per cent of committed voters in Northern Ireland say they would remain part of the United Kingdom, while 21 per cent desire a united Ireland.

Both Irish and British Governments do not believe now is the time to conduct a poll on Irish borders, despite Sinn Fein actively campaigning for one to be held.

The DUP may also support the poll, which minister Arlene Foster said would demonstrate the strength of support for Northern Ireland's relationship with the UK.