Nicola Sturgeon has predicted an independent Scotland and a united Ireland as part of a "wider shake-up" of the UK’s constitution.
The former first minister speaking to the BBC to mark the 10th anniversary of the 2014 referendum.
“I believe that, perhaps as part of a wider shake-up of UK governance, the reunification of Ireland, perhaps, more autonomy in Wales, that I think we will see Scotland become an independent country,” she said.
“I’ll certainly campaign and advocate for that for as long as I’ve got breath in my body.”
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Ms Sturgeon refused to say whether she believed Irish reunification would come before Scottish independence but added: “I do think that will happen.
“I think we will see over the next number of years, I’m not going to sit here and put a figure on that, what I would describe as a very healthy realignment of how the nations of the British Isles are governed and cooperate together.”
Asked whether he supported Ms Sturgeon’s predictions about an independent Scotland and a united Ireland, John Swinney told journalists: “Do I think they’ll both happen? Yes, I do. So I agree with that point very much. I think the tide and the pattern of those debates is moving decisively and emphatically in that direction.”
Craig Hoy, the Scottish Conservative chairman, said: “Nicola Sturgeon simply cannot help herself. Not only is she still pushing Scottish independence at every turn, she has now decided to weigh in on the divisive issue of a border poll in Ireland too.
“Rather than constantly talking about the break-up of the United Kingdom, the former SNP leader should be focused on the real priorities of the people in Glasgow Southside. She should stop being a part-time MSP and stand up for what really matters to her constituents like record NHS waiting times, good local jobs and keeping communities safe from crime.”
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