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Listen: 100 Years of ZB Podcast hosted by Mike Hosking

Leaders of Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland united in push for independence

Author
Newstalk ZB,
Publish Date
Tue, 15 Sep 2026, 9:26am
First Minister of Scotland, John Swinney, First Minister of Wales, Rhun ap Iorwerth, Sinn Fein President and leader of the opposition in the Irish Dáil, Mary Lou McDonald and First Minister of Northern Ireland, Michelle O'Neill. Photo / Getty Images
First Minister of Scotland, John Swinney, First Minister of Wales, Rhun ap Iorwerth, Sinn Fein President and leader of the opposition in the Irish Dáil, Mary Lou McDonald and First Minister of Northern Ireland, Michelle O'Neill. Photo / Getty Images

There's a view friction will linger in the United Kingdom as the leaders from Wales, Scotland, and Northern Ireland want out.  

The three first ministers have signed an agreement overnight, declaring no Westminister government has the right to block democracy. 

It's the first time they've shared the stance since the UK devolution began, with Scotland and Northern Ireland calling for referendums.  

King's College European Politics and Foreign Affairs Professor Anand Menon told Mike Hosking these political parties benefit when there's tension with London.  

He expects the rumbling of discontent to continue as long as this persists, as the leaders opt for political gains. 

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