Presidential nomination process needs reform

WE are constantly being told that the presidency is above politics.

However, the only people who can nominate a candidate for election to it are politicians, be they TDs or local councils.

It is difficult to see how anyone could be impressed by the carry-on that preceded the close of nominations.

To broaden the right to nominate candidates, is it not time that other organisations be given that right?

Other groups who might be given that right could include, for example, cultural, educational, commercial and community ones.

This would obviously require a constitutional change and so a referendum, but therein lies the problem.

Will the politicians agree to losing the absolute privilege they now have or nominating candidates?

Following the silly carry-on of the last few weeks and its results, I hope the Irish people will demand a change.

The calibre of candidate would hardly be adversely affected.

Brendan Hurley

Ballinlough

Cork