Health care free when you need it
GP visits and hospital care in Northern Ireland are free at the point of use. In the Republic, many people pay to see a GP.
Sources: NI Direct · HSEWhat the Union gives Northern Ireland
Things we would be asked to give up or replace. Each links to its evidence.
Backed by the whole UK
Public spending in Northern Ireland is higher than the tax raised here. The UK Treasury covers the difference every year.
Source: NISRA Net Fiscal Balance ReportOur biggest market
Northern Ireland businesses sell more to Great Britain than to anywhere else outside Northern Ireland, all in sterling.
Source: NISRA Broad Economy Sales and ExportsPensions and benefits you rely on
The UK State Pension and UK-wide benefits system, built on the National Insurance you have paid all your working life.
Source: GOV.UK ↗Our home, our place in the Union
Pick a topic
Tap one to filter the questions below.
The questions unity campaigners don't want you to ask
Before anyone is asked to vote, people here deserve straight answers.
- Law✓ Answered
Who decides whether a border poll is held?
Read the answer → - British citizenship & identity◐ Partly answered
Would I keep my British citizenship?
Read the answer → - Pensions & benefits◐ Partly answered
Would my UK State Pension still be paid?
Read the answer → - Pensions & benefits✕ No clear answer
Would I have to pay to see a GP?
Read the answer → - Money & public finances◐ Partly answered
Which currency would we use, and when would it change?
Read the answer → - Money & public finances✕ No clear answer
Who would cover the gap between public spending and tax raised here?
Read the answer →
News
Developments that affect Northern Ireland's place in the UK.
Lawful Orange Order Parade Blocked as Garvaghy Road Dispute Escalates
A long-running dispute over the Garvaghy Road in Portadown has reignited after the Parades Commission authorised a restricted procession of 35 Orange Order members along the road. After a series of court proceedings, the courts ultimately allowed the parade to proceed, but thousands of protesters gathered to prevent the men from completing their route. The protest involved senior Sinn Féin politicians, including First Minister Michelle O'Neill. The PSNI subsequently confirmed that a large-scale criminal investigation was under way into the unlawful protest. The dispute has now taken another extraordinary turn, with reports that three sirens have been installed along the Garvaghy Road to alert residents if another Orange Order march is attempted.
Read more →MI5 lowers the Northern Ireland terrorism threat level to Substantial
The threat level for Northern Ireland-related terrorism in Northern Ireland was reduced from Severe to Substantial, meaning an attack is likely rather than highly likely.
Read more →Northern Ireland Assembly restored after two years
Power-sharing returns at Stormont and a new Executive is formed.
Read more →Government publishes "Safeguarding the Union"
A UK Government paper setting out new commitments on Northern Ireland's place in the UK internal market.
Read more →Northern Ireland's future is decided by the people of Northern Ireland.
Under the Northern Ireland Act 1998, Northern Ireland stays in the United Kingdom unless a majority of people here vote otherwise. The Union is our choice, and we can keep making it.
Source: Northern Ireland Act 1998, section 1 and Schedule 1