Sinn Fein has been something of a one trick pony for decades, a united Ireland was really all they offered. The issues north vs south are very different. Obviously, an Irish language act is a non issue in the south. Irish /English in the south has been the norm since the Free State.
The rise of Sinn Fein in the south is due to the attraction of younger voters to Sinn Feins economic policies, particularly their proposals to ease the obstacles to home ownership.
Realistically, Sinn fein will not be a part of the next Irish government. They may will be the largest party in opposition.
Obviously, the results of the election in the south will have no direct effect on the north. The Brexit effect with the boris border in the Irish Sea will shape the future. we shall see,
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