New ideas on reform are needed - Challenging dysfunction
The unending litany of indictment must have an affect on those criticised, especially those criticised unfairly. Nevertheless, the epic but sadly justified charge sheet has a terribly dispiriting impact on those who believe, despite such unrelenting, powerful evidence, that we are capable of remaking the civic morality underpinning what it means to be Irish.
That it takes so very long to complete — or even recognise that one is necessary — a reform project is at the root of the dangerous disconnect between the institutions of our democracy and those who choose not to vote in any election, a figure wavering dangerously around 50%. A slapdash State can only rely on emotional patriotism or engagement for so long, eventually disappointment becomes disconnected disillusion.