Lack of funds hampers would-be candidates

THE present election will have to be run a second time on the grounds that it is the most un-democratic election that has ever been run within the Irish State.

It fails to consider the plight of the massive number of newly unemployed people who might like to run for election but do not have the funds.

The fact is that well-heeled politicians who have been in government for the three terms have a huge advantage, as most will use their state salaries, the people’s money, to get re-elected.

Similarly, the politicians who are in office have now built up their profile, giving them a clear advantage. There is only one programme giving air-space to the whole Irish public and that is Liveline with Joe Duffy.

The “McKenna” precedent should be involved. This is where a young Patricia McKenna of the Green Party during the Divorce referendum insisted on a Government-funded campaign for both sides — even though she was for divorce.

A meeting will be held to discuss this issue at Temple Bar Hotel in Dublin next Monday at 8pm.

Anne Ryan

Bandon

Co Cork