Southern Ireland's Hopes Mr. de Valera this week has explained
his proposals for solving the problem of partition in an interview which should remove many misconceptions as to his aims and policy. He wishes Ulster to retain its local Parliament, with its present powers and with jurisdiction within its present boundaries, but to return members, elected by proportional representation, to an All-Ireland Parliament instead of to the Parliament at Westminster. His acceptance of the present boundaries is a natural conclusion from the belief that the solid Catholic minorities in. Fermanagh and Tyrone would be adequately protected by representation in an Irish Parliament. It may be asked, however, what Mr. de Valera hopes to gain by a settlement which would leave the Ulster Government with its existing powers? The answer is that, in Mr. de Valera's belief, the antagonisms between Ulster and the Free State would be reduced by union and increased intercourse. In this he may be optimistic ; but it is certain at least that the present division of Ireland wol do nothing to end the hostility of Ulster and the Free State. It is interesting indeed to compare the relative positions ( Mr. de Valera and Lord Craigavon. Mr. de Valera, who stands for union, can only gain by increased friendship between Northern and Southern Ireland. The position of Lord Craigavon, who stands for partition, depends on the maintenance of bitter hostility.
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