Record vote in Hong Kong: Chaos shows it is always vital to vote

Next Friday, four constituencies vote on who might replace Dáil deputies elected to Europe. It is unlikely there will be a record turnout. By-elections in Cork North Central, Dublin Fingal, Dublin Mid-West, and Wexford observe a formality but they are very much a curtain-raiser for an approaching general election. Those elected might be wise to wait until after the 2020 election before buying a Dublin apartment. They will need a second endorsement if they are to have a Dáil seat this time next year.

Even if that taking-for-granted is understandable, it is in stark contrast to the situation faced elsewhere. Just yesterday, the people of Hong Kong turned out in unprecedented numbers for local elections seen as a proxy referendum on months of anti-government protests. Hour-long queues stretched outside polling stations and by midday more than 1.5m people had voted, exceeding the total in elections four years ago. Their wishes may not be honoured but no one can be in any doubt about their determination to be heard.