Ireland's EU Support Dips; Northern Ireland Backs Union

Support for Ireland's EU membership stands at 82%, its lowest point in over a decade, following a peak of 93% during the 2019 Brexit negotiations. The decline is attributed to concerns over immigration control, the cost of living, EU regulation, and a perceived lack of Irish influence in Brussels. Only 47% of respondents believe the EU is heading in the right direction, and 43% feel their views are not represented at the EU level. Despite these misgivings, half of Irish respondents support increased EU defence cooperation, reflecting shifting attitudes due to international security concerns. In Northern Ireland, EU membership support is strong at 77%, with notable backing for a united Ireland within the EU. Experts caution that while overall support remains high, rising dissatisfaction highlights the need for greater engagement with public concerns.