Report finds North South cooperation deteriorated due to political instability

By Q Radio News

A new cross border survey has found conditions for North South co-operation have deteriorated due to political instability. 

The findings of a survey conducted by the Centre for Cross Border Studies has been published today as part of the group's third quarterly survey on conditions for North-South and East-West co-operation. 

It follows a previous report published in July, that found 51% of civil society organisations felt conditions for political North-South collaboration had not improved and gotten worse, due to growing political instability surrounding the Northern Ireland Protocol. 

The latest survey contains data from over 60 civil society organisation and local authorities obtained between 17 and 30 September. 

Respondents pointed to politicisation of Brexit and the implementation of the NI Protocol as a cause of this stagnation due to the erosion of relations.

The report authored by the Centre, whose role is to promote cross border cooperation, also showed that levels of East West cooperation has stayed the same, but respondents indicated a lack of trust in the British government and local politicians to address issues.

Westminster

Dr Anthony Soares, Director of the Centre for Cross Norder Studies said:

“I am increasingly concerned that there has been no improvement in the political conditions for North South cooperation since our previous findings in July.”

“Whilst it is expected that cooperation may dwindle occasionally, it is alarming that cooperation has stagnated during a period when we need it most. Cooperation across these islands is the only solution to the problems we face.”

“I believe we can improve the political conditions for cooperation across these islands, but this can only be done through honest and respectful dialogue between all parties to deal with the sensitivities surrounding the Northern Ireland Protocol.”

“Since becoming Director of the Centre for Cross Border Studies in 2019, it is apparent to me that there is a willingness from society to cooperate across our islands for the benefit of all. That is why our decision makers should strive to find solutions to the barriers of greater cooperation.”

On the forward work of the Centre, Dr Soares added:

“Stability is needed for cross border cooperation and collaboration; all parties must come to an agreement on the working of the Protocol and governments must engage on cross cutting issues.”

“We note and welcome the negotiations currently taking place between the British Government and the European Union to find an agreement.”

“As a Centre we will work to continually promote dialogue and cooperation to ensure the vision of a reconciled and peaceful society, underpinned by all three strands of the Good Friday/Belfast Agreement is a reality.”