Future Takes

The Government launched the new Future Takes series on 10 October 2024, as part of the Government’s Shared Island initiative.

The Future Takes interviews mark four years of the Government’s Shared Island Dialogue series, which has brought together over 4,000 civil society representatives across all communities and traditions on the island to discuss common concerns for the future.

Continuing this island-wide interaction, Future Takes features contributions from a range of prominent voices in Ireland, Northern Ireland and beyond, on how to build a shared future on the island of Ireland, underpinned by the Good Friday Agreement.

Contributors give their take on an overarching question: For a more reconciled island of Ireland, however it is constituted, what should we give and what could we gain in the years ahead?

Writer Colum McCann reflects on the importance of storytelling to help bridge divides and borders, to build a more reconciled shared island.

Fascinating insights from barrister Caoilfhionn Gallagher KC about the importance of acknowledging the past in order to move forward and build a more reconciled island.

Fascinating discussion with CEO of Irish in Britain, Brian Dalton, on the ever evolving and fluid nature of identity across these islands.

Insightful reflections from Irish language and community activist Linda Ervine MBE on the power of language to bring people together to help build a shared island.

Playwright and novelist Lucy Caldwell gives her powerful take on how to build a reconciled island that is open, outward-facing, and non-hierarchical.

Powerful words from poet, performer, and playwright Felispeaks about how to harness the power of art to amplify the voices of all communities on a shared island.

Insightful thoughts from comedian Vittorio Angelone on the need to overcome division on achieving a reconciled island.

Insightful contribution from Irish Congress of Trade Unions General Secretary, Owen Reidy, about the importance of respect and of inclusive social dialogue in building a shared future that belongs to all communities on the island.

Motivational speaker and explorer Mark Pollock gives his inspiring take on overcoming challenges, and the importance of hope and resilience, in achieving a more reconciled island.

Media contributor, Jarlath Kearney discusses what we could give and gain for a more reconciled island of Ireland.

Award-winning musician Rhiannon Giddens’ powerful take on how to harness the power of community and conversation to create a better shared future on the island of Ireland.

Inspiring thoughts from artist Colin Davidson on the importance of building a shared future that works for all communities across the island.

Musician and composer Colm Mac Con Iomaire reflects on the need to give the time and space to enable all communities to come together, in confidence, to build a more reconciled island.

Thought-provoking views from choreographer Oona Doherty on how embracing the arts can help to build a more reconciled island in the years ahead.

Fascinating insights from editor and journalist Samantha Barry on how storytelling can help break down barriers and bring communities together to build a shared island.