Economic Collaboration and Integration Key to Shared Prosperity – Hughes

Sinn Féin MP Dáire Hughes has said that growing all-island trade highlights the real economic benefits of north–south cooperation, and reinforces the case for Irish Unity as a practical, forward-looking strategy.

Following a constructive meeting with Trade NI and members of the Joint Committee on the Implementation of the Good Friday Agreement, 

Dáire Hughes said:

“It was a pleasure to welcome Trade NI to Leinster House today for a very positive and forward-looking discussion on strengthening economic cooperation across the island.

“I was pleased to attend this meeting alongside Senator Conor Murphy and Cathal Mallaghan MP as part of the Good Friday Agreement Committee, where we continue working to build stronger links between communities, institutions and economies north and south.

“The continued growth in cross-border trade clearly demonstrates the strength and resilience of the all-island economy. It shows that when we collaborate, we thrive — creating jobs, attracting investment, and driving innovation. The increase in trade is proof that economic cooperation across Ireland is not only working, but accelerating, and it reinforces the case for deeper integration and long-term strategic planning on an all-island basis.

“All-island collaboration delivers real results — for workers, businesses, and communities. By working together, we can remove obstacles, grow our economy fairly, create jobs and share prosperity.”

Dáire Hughes MP continued;

“The only way, however, to fully maximise the potential of the all-Ireland economy is through Irish unity. The pursuit of a united Ireland is a practical, common-sense economic strategy backed up by evidence. Collaboration is already bearing fruit, through trade, enhanced cooperation, and shared services, but more is possible. 

“With Economy Minister Caoimhe Archibald’s strategy already seeing the north’s economy outperform Britain’s, alongside these latest trade figures, Irish unity is the only logical step for delivering shared and sustainable prosperity across Ireland. 

“It’s long past time that the Irish government begins to plan for reunification. It should move immediately to convene citizens’ assemblies to formally start planning to unlock our full potential as an island.”

CRÍOCH/ENDS