Media glare has always been on female politicians’ appearances

It was acceptable to describe one now retired female politician as a sumo wrestler, writes Terry Prone

SO the young Meath county councillor is out canvassing. Because she’s not a Government candidate in the next election, she doesn’t get criticisms of Government actions thrown at her on the doorsteps of her constituency. Instead, she gets friendly advice. Like, maybe she could smarten up. Indeed, she might wear a bit more make up. The old mascara and eye shadow would, by implication, make her more acceptable as a candidate. Never mind all that policy stuff, it’s appearance that really counts.

The candidate involved did the smart thing. She went public about the advice and got a lot of good publicity arising therefrom, which will raise her name-recognition when it comes to polling day. Fair dues.