Northern Ireland voters under the age of 45 will choose a united Ireland, according to a new poll.
But if a border poll were held now, more people overall would vote for the north to remain part of the UK.
The Belfast Telegraph’s Lucid Talk poll found that 49% of respondents supported remaining in the UK, while 39% chose a united Ireland.
However, a united Ireland proved to be the most popular option for those under 45, with respondents who were middle-aged and pensioners showing the strongest support for a united Ireland.
The poll came amid heightened debate over constitutional issues.
Earlier this month, Sinn Féin’s Michelle O’Neill said she expected a vote on Irish union to be held within the next 10 years.
She said her election as Prime Minister was indicative of the “changes that are taking place” on the island of Ireland.
Party leader Mary Lou McDonald said reunification was “within reach”, prompting DUP leader Sir Geoffrey Donaldson to say he must be “the longest arm on the island”. made a statement.
The new poll also found that 11% of those surveyed were unsure of what they would do regarding a future referendum, with 1% saying they would not vote or spoil the vote.
The survey also found that while more than eight in 10 nationalists want a border check within the next 10 years, fewer than one in 10 union members do so. .
Almost two-thirds of Labor members believe a referendum on Northern Ireland’s constitutional future should never be held.
Support for a united Ireland was higher among younger age groups, with 48% of 18-24 year olds wanting a united Ireland, and 43% choosing Union.
Among 25- to 34-year-olds, 45% to 41% support constitutional reform, and among 35 to 44-year-olds, 44% to 42%.
Polls show that middle-aged people and retirees support maintaining the status quo.
Among those aged 45 to 54, 54% to 42% support the Coalition, and among those aged 55 to 64, 64% to 28% support the Coalition.
The survey also showed that 48% of pensioners voted to remain in the UK, while 36% supported a united Ireland.
It also found that 69% of SDLP voters would vote to abolish the Union, while 14% would vote to maintain it.
Union voters (36%) supported remaining in the Union, 27% favored a united Ireland and 35% were undecided.
Green voters (55%) supported a united Ireland, with just 10% wanting Northern Ireland to remain in the UK and 35% undecided.