Only a third of voters in the Republic would support a united Ireland if it meant paying more tax.

A Behaviour and Attitudes survey for the Sunday Times has found just 32% would back Irish unity if that meant higher taxes.

The figures changed dramatically in a situation where a United Ireland led to lower tax levels.

In that case, 72% said they were in favour of uniting the island of Ireland.

Fianna Fáil drops two points to 28% in the poll, but remains the most popular party and has a five-point lead over Fine Gael which is also down two to 23%.

Sinn Féin on 18% gains four points, while there is a similar percentage point increase for unaligned Independents on 12%.

Labour goes up 1% to 7%, the Independent Alliance are unchanged on 4%, the AAA/PBP drop 1% to 4%, the Greens are unchanged on 2%, Soc Dems drop 1% to 1% and Workers Party drop 2% to 1%.