Scottish, Welsh, N. Irish parties to hold independence summit

The principal separatist parties from Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland will convene an unprecedented summit in Cardiff on Monday, according to their joint announcement. John Swinney, leader of the Scottish Nationalist Party, Rhun ap Iorwerth representing Plaid Cymru in Wales, and Michelle O'Neill of Irish Republicans Sinn Fein have vowed to push for self-determination votes within their respective territories.

The leaders have emphasized their intention to explore possible collaborative initiatives in key sectors such as economy, energy, and European and international cooperation. They have also pledged to urge the British government to prepare, plan, and facilitate constitutional changes in Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland. This development follows President Donald Trump's recent endorsement of a united Ireland.

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has previously stated his opposition to a vote in Northern Ireland. For the first time since devolution began in 1999, the independence parties hold less dominant positions in their respective parliaments. Sinn Fein has been the largest party in Northern Ireland's assembly since 2022. The regional parliaments wield significant authority over healthcare, education, housing, transportation, and environmental matters, alongside limited tax collection responsibilities.