FG takes the wrong option

FINE Gael apparently intends to propose at their árd fheis that as a component of their “new politics” policy to reform the entire electoral system, the term of office of the President is reduced to five years; that the minimum age of candidates is reduced from 35 to 18 years and presidential elections would take place at the same time as local and European elections so as to achieve “massive cost-saving”.

Perhaps FG would be wiser now to embrace the adage “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” and to focus on issues that are rupturing the welfare and wellbeing of society.

The one office of state that has worked effectively in this country for several decades is the presidency and this is demonstrated by the consistently high approval ratings of incumbents.