North-South Relations During the Troubles: 1969–72

Abstract

In aftermath of violence, both governments are operating in a state of crisis management. For the Unionist government, the rising number of anti-partitionist statements and the mobilisation of the Irish army posed real problems for moderates within the government. The fear of an invasion and rising violence on the streets created a narrative of subversive Irish activity. This sense of fear was only heightened following the Arms Crisis which implicated ministers in a plot to smuggle arms toe Northern Nationalists. Whilst an attempt to end the violence was examined the rise of the Provisional IRA had a hugely destabilising impact on North-South relations. The ensuing tough security policies such as internment, made an improved relationship next to impossible.