She claimed we are living in the “end days of partition” and called for preparations for “unity referendums this decade” as she addressed an Easter commemoration in Co Tyrone.
Speaking in Carrickmore at the party’s annual event to mark the anniversary of the 1916 rising, Ms McDonald said that “Casement Park will be built” and called for a full government inquiry into the killings of GAA official Seán Brown.
Ms McDonald connected the commemoration to current political objectives, saying: “Now, we write the next chapter of our nation’s story - the reunification of Ireland.
“This is a time of great change. We are living in the end days of partition as a new generation looks to the possibilities of unity with fresh hearts.”
Watch: Sam McBride discusses a united Ireland, tariffs and shared island future with Taoiseach Micheál Martin
She criticised the Taoiseach Micheál Martin over his recent comments on a border poll.
In an interview with the Belfast Telegraph earlier this month, Mr Martin dismissed Sinn Fein’s call for a referendum, saying “we’re not planning for a border poll in 2030”.
But today Ms McDonald said “we must prepare for Unity referendums this decade”.
“Building a new and united Ireland is the most important task for a generation,” she added.
“It’s not good enough for Taoiseach Micheál Martin to stick his head in the sand and stand against the momentum for unity.
“To the Irish and the British governments, we say - the days of treading water are over. It's time to plan and prepare for constitution...
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