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Ten years after the UK embarked on a rushed public vote that divided the nation and triggered turmoil, a advisory comes from across the Irish Sea: it could happen again.

Authorities and electorate entered unwittingly Brexit and the identical may happen with a referendum on a united Ireland, initiating convulsions for which nobody is prepared.

That conveys the caution from two leading commentators from either side of the Irish border who have teamed up to analyse the benefits and drawbacks of Northern Ireland leaving the UK to create a fresh nation with the Republic of Ireland.

Governmental Structures Unprepared

The author and columnist and Sam McBride, have concluded that the political establishments in Ireland and Britain are extremely unprepared for a possibly contentious and monumental referendum.

"The crucial insight of Brexit has gone unabsorbed, which is that developments can come out of the blue and can build support rapidly," the commentator remarked. "In my opinion that the institutional structure of our archipelago remains extremely volatile."

Book Publication Intends to Provoke Discussion

The duo have examined the political, economic and societal arguments for any structural alteration in a book, Examining Irish Unification, released by the Irish Royal Irish Academy.

They seek to stir debate on the matter with a roadshow of speaking events that will take them to Westminster soon.

"What concerns all parties, or should haunt everybody, is the Brexit vote of 2016," said O’Toole.

"We do not want a referendum on a yes-no, vague proposition whose consequences have not been clarified because then you end up with an extraordinarily split population where the losing side are not reconciled to defeat and the those successful are uncertain precisely what it is that they have won."

Governmental Mandate

Under the Belfast Agreement, the Northern Ireland official is obliged to schedule a referendum on Irish unification if it appears likely that a majority would vote in favour.

Sinn Féin and other pro-unification groups say that moment is imminent, and a group called pro-unification advocates has garnered backing, but authorities in Dublin and London and pro-UK factions play down the likelihood, leaving it unclear if and when there will be a national vote.

Absence of Substantive Discussion

Ideological statements supporting and opposing unity has obscured the shortage of informed dialogue, stated McBride.

"Individuals are often supportive or opposed the notion but the detailed consideration which might go beyond that to achieve it has largely not occurred. A great deal has occurred in universities but hardly any politicians or advocates are willing to participate with even the essentials. For instance, which kind of country should be desired? Unitary? Federal?"

Publication's Method

In the publication, no writer advocates unity or the current situation. Each writes two essays that strive for objectivity in detailing the argument for a unified Ireland and the case opposing it, gathering economic and social figures, past examples and governmental frameworks.

Arguments range over flags and symbols, levies, health services, retirement funds, public liabilities and the threat of pro-UK militancy. The goal is to inform and encourage conversation.

"Considerable attention exists in the subject but there hasn't quite been a discussion," said the writer. "Discussion implies an recognition of the notion that there could be valid points on either side."

Simultaneous Plebiscites

A referendum in Northern Ireland would simultaneously prompt one in the Republic of Ireland, where citizens report they favour unification but oppose greater financial contributions or implementing a new flag to recognise pro-UK communities' British identity.

"The Irish government should determine what the plan from nationalist groups is aside from just saying: 'We seek a united Ireland and we welcome you'," said O’Toole.

Possibility of Referendum

The journalist believes a referendum in his era is possible and that it might occur unexpectedly. "You could have just a reckless or a ill-advised or a incompetent government minister who states: 'Let's just do this and get it out of the way.'"

Each of the pro-unification advocates and pro-UK supporters have plausible, valid arguments, he said. "One side will succeed here and somebody will ultimately not succeed but each side has possesses something to learn from the alternative viewpoints."

Request for Wider Dialogue

Westminster should participate in the discussion, said O’Toole. "This involves Britain. It is a British issue equally as it is an Irish issue."