Michael Clifford: Another hit for democracy – plain old deception

At another time in history, the fake polling revelations might be not such a big deal, but right now liberal democracy is not in a good place and any erosion of trust takes on far great significance than might otherwise have been the case

Sinn Féin leader Mary Lou McDonald. The only physical evidence of the practice of fake polling is the Sinn Féin user manual. Picture: Brian Lawless/PA Wire

Democracy took another hit during the week. This time, it was plain old deception that dealt a blow to the system by which we choose to be governed.

At another time in history, this might be not such a big deal, but right now liberal democracy is not in a good place and any erosion of trust takes on far great significance than might otherwise have been the case.