The political landscape across the island of Ireland has been changing over the past decade. Demographic changes, Brexit, polling data, and the realignment of traditional politics in the Oireachtas all point to the need to prepare for the increasing inevitability of substantial constitutional change in the future.  Dialogue around the potential for a United Ireland has become more prevalent, particularly in Northern Ireland. In his address to the IIEA, Senator Conor Murphy discusses how this now requires more structured formal planning involving the Irish Government to ensure the necessary preparations are in place for a smooth transition in the event of constitutional change.   

Conor Murphy was appointed as Sinn Féin Leader of the Seanad in February 2025. In 1998, after serving as a Newry and Mourne councillor for eight years, he was elected to the Assembly where he chaired the Assembly Committee, was the Party Chief Whip, and also held the position of Group Leader of the Sinn Féin MLAs. In 2005, Senator Murphy became the first Irish Republican to be elected as MP for Newry and Armagh, he then retained the seat in 2010. In 2007, Conor was appointed the Minister for Regional Development, a position that he held until 2011. In 2012, as part of Sinn Féin’s commitment to ending double-jobbing, he left the Assembly to concentrate on his role as an MP. From 2020-2022, Conor was Minister for Finance, and since Stormont was restored in February 2024, he held the post of Minister for the Economy until his resignation after being elected to the Seanad. Senator Murphy has been a champion for the All-Ireland economy, infrastructure, and connectivity representing a border constituency. As Sinn Féin Leader in the Seanad, he will prioritise advancing the all-Ireland economy, providing a voice for the people of Northern Ireland, extending presidential voting rights to all Irish citizens, including those in Northern Ireland and those living abroad, and building towards a referendum on Irish reunification. Senator Murphy played a key role in the negotiations after the Good Friday Agreement and as Sinn Féin’s chief negotiator, he experienced working with both the Irish and British governments, engaging with political unionism, and key sectors north and south. Senator Murphy has also represented Sinn Féin at the Hillsborough, Leeds Castle, and St Andrew’s negotiations as well as playing a key role in the Fresh Start Agreement negotiated at Stormont House.