None of our candidates can deliver

I AM disillusioned, I am angry and I am concerned for the health and welfare of our country.

This general election held such promise, it held the idea that real change will happen and that strong, brave and courageous decision makers would emerge and obtain a mandate to govern this country. I’m afraid this will not happen.

During the past number of weeks I’ve attended a number of political events in Mayo and around the country. My observations and analysis have lead me to believe that the candidates putting themselves forward are not up to scratch.

Firstly, candidates are angry and problem-focused. They are pointing out what is wrong with this country and shouting at each other. Does this help?

Secondly the candidates are extremely removed from serious issues for our most vulnerable; children’s rights, mental health; community development etc, the lack of knowledge on these areas is startling, considering that more people died last year as a result of suicide then on our roads. And finally none of the candidates are solution-focused and when pushed they offer vague smoke screens and empty promises.

I’m ashamed of our political system, I’m ashamed of our candidates and I’m ashamed of myself for not trying to do more.

My only hope is that we, the electorate, begin to stand up and push those who represent us and that more of us gain the courage to stand in future elections.

John Buckley

Westport

Co Mayo