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.
However, at a separate commemoration in Dublin, another senior Sinn Fein figure said Irish unity was not inevitable. North Belfast MP John Finucane said more work would be needed.
Speaking in Carrickmore at an event to mark the 1916 Easter Rising, 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 in the near future, 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 constitutional change and for reunification.”
She called for the establishment of a “citizen’s assembly” on the issue.
She added: “Our message to unionists is clear - the united Ireland we s...
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