Memorandum of understanding signed that could dissolve the United Kingdom

Scottish First Minister John Swinney, Welsh First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth, Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O'Neill, and Sinn Féin President Mary Lou McDonald, who operates across Ireland, met in the Welsh capital of Cardiff and signed a memorandum of understanding that envisions separation from the United Kingdom. In the memorandum signed by the pro-independence leaders, it was stated that "Each of our nations has the right to determine its own future through democratic means and in accordance with the will of its people." The document, which states that the dominance of the United Kingdom is coming to an end, declared, "There is strong momentum behind our movements, and we believe that constitutional change is coming."

The document, which envisions Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland working together for a stronger economy, developing their own energy resources, European and international cooperation, and the right of nations to self-determination, called on England to prepare for constitutional change for the independence processes of these countries. The document stated, "We call on the United Kingdom Government to prepare for, plan, and facilitate constitutional change in each jurisdiction."

Speaking at a joint press conference held by the leaders, Welsh First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth emphasized that Westminster, where the United Kingdom Parliament is located, has become detached from the public, and defended the right of the Welsh people to decide their own future.

"There is a growing acceptance that Westminster is dysfunctional"

Iorwerth said, "There is a growing acceptance that Westminster is dysfunctional and that power truly needs to be brought closer to the people and communities. We are aware of the new agenda emerging in England regarding devolution. Wales is a nation. And as a nation, we must have the powers, resources, and fair treatment we need to build the future our people deserve."

"It is an inalienable right for our peoples to express themselves and determine their own futures"

Scottish First Minister John Swinney stated, "For the first time in history, there are first ministers in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland who believe that their countries should decide their own futures." Emphasizing that this is why the meeting is a "critical moment" in the constitutional journey of the United Kingdom, Swinney argued that the Scottish people should go to a referendum again for independence.

Swinney said, "The principle of self-determination forms the basis of the discussions we held today and will hold in the coming period. It is an inalienable right for our peoples to express themselves and determine their own futures. I want to ensure that the people of Scotland can decide their own future within this term of the Scottish Parliament."

"This change is unstoppable"

Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle O'Neill also said, "This change is unstoppable. No matter what any British Prime Minister says, they cannot stop the developments unfolding before our eyes."

Stating that their countries are facing a historic moment and an opportunity that should not be missed, O'Neill said, "Our common cause is that we have the right to self-determination. Another common cause is that we must ensure together that this message is heard in Westminster."

"This is a matter for all people on the island of Ireland"

Sinn Féin President Mary Lou McDonald stated that the reunification of Ireland is no longer just her party's agenda. Arguing that the Irish people have the right to decide their constitutional future without pressure or interference, McDonald said, "The future of Ireland and the reunification of our country is not just a matter for Sinn Féin. This is a matter for all people on the island of Ireland."