Bowing out was a victory for homophobes and conservatives

THE all-out war against ex-Presidential hopeful David Norris has been won by homophobes, conservatives, and Catholics in forcing a poll topper out. Guilt by association has become a powerful political tool in driving any candidate out of town — and especially a gay one.

Mr Norris has claimed that he has proven that a gay person can run for the Presidency. However, the evidence seems to be to the contrary when one takes account of the fact that a smear campaign regarding interview tapes took place before the conviction of his former partner came into the public arena.

Mr Norris’s view that it is possible for a person with a different lifestyle to run for the Presidency, despite good initial vibes from the public, must surely be doubted.

Gay people are today fighting an uphill battle to belong to a world that prides itself hypocritically on compulsory heterosexuality and conformity, leaving no room for unorthodox people.

One can only imagine what would happen with a transsexual candidate and the ridicule that would be brought to bear.

David Norris has no dirt on him whatsoever, which is more than can be said for others in politics who have brazened out scandal after scandal while holding high office and are there today representing us. It seems in future that the only people who will be able to go for the Presidency, if the age is lowered in the Constitution from 35 to 0, will be new-born babies, unspoilt or tainted from anything in this world and immune from scandal — unless they come from or are associated with undesirable people?

Maurice Fitzgerald

Shanbally

Co Cork