Conor Murphy, the economy minister for Northern Ireland, has resigned from his position to join the Seanad, the upper house of the Irish parliament.

Murphy, a senior member of Sinn Féin, secured one of the 60 seats in the Seanad after gaining support from Sinn Féin TDs and councillors.

His election marks a significant step in Sinn Féin’s ongoing effort to advance the goal of a united Ireland within the Irish government.

In his victory speech, Murphy warned that the issue of a united Ireland cannot be ignored, responding to the new Irish government's stance on reunification, which has been downplayed by Deputy Prime Minister Simon Harris.

Murphy’s move to the Seanad highlights Sinn Féin’s continued push for a border referendum, despite challenges such as the housing crisis and economic concerns dominating the political landscape in the Republic of Ireland.

Murphy rejected any suggestion that his shift to the Irish parliament was an attempt to increase Sinn Féin's influence over Northern Irish politics, stating that the party operates under a unified leadership, regardless of geographic location.

He expressed pride in representing the Northern perspective in the Seanad and pledged to contribute to the broader conversation on Irish unity.

With a political career spanning decades, Murphy’s resignation from the Stormont government is seen as a pivotal moment, as Northern Ireland’s devolved government faces persistent challenges, such as the UK’s worst health waiting lists.

Sinn Féin is expected to announce Murphy's successor at Stormont soon.

In his new role, Murphy hopes to utilize his political experience and contacts to influence the debate on Irish unity and continue advancing the case for a referendum.