It would create an interesting dynamic vis a vis the UK. The Brexiteer narrative has been that its always all about them with everyone else in Europe expected to rubber stamp whatever they agreed. The idea that "THEIR deal" should be subject to approval by Ireland is anathema to them, and might force them to become more aware of how other people think about the issues from their own point of view.

I personally think any such referendum would probably pass and strengthen the governments hand in dealing with the fall-out from Brexit, but as you say such things can be unpredictable and depends on who turns out to vote. If it is only Sinn Fein voters who are motivated to turn out, the vote could be very interesting indeed. It might make any ratification of the deal contingent on further UK concessions on N. Ireland, although, as I have said before, I don't think a N. Ireland referendum on Irish unity would pass in the absence of a comprehensive peace treaty setting out exactly how a united Ireland would be structured and funded.

Index of Frank's Diaries