The diary of a first-time voter: Go out and vote, even if you don’t feel represented

I realise that my writing on the Irish political system to date has been pretty damning.

My mum told me that if I don’t put a positive spin on things, I’ll totally dissuade the disillusioned youth from voting. Apart from furiously overestimating my social influence (am I basically the next Owen Jones?), she is probably right in thinking that I’ve come across pessimistic.

I don’t, in fact, think that all politicians are creatures of corruption and deceit, driven by desire for profit and power, and controlled by capitalism. I try to consider things objectively. My aunt asked me the other night which long-standing Irish politicians I respected, after I had listed out candidates I was considering — all relatively new to politics.

The Tánaiste has responded to the Taoiseach's 'whingers' comment https://t.co/K2Trd0BMen pic.twitter.com/t7fFQSXimT

— Irish Examiner (@irishexaminer) February 22, 2016

I had to legitimately rack my brains. Immediately, I thought of Mary Robinson for her astounding work in human rights and climate change, and Michael D Higgins for his efforts towards world peace. I try to think of politicians in our current government that I hold in esteem, and find that I come up short.

Most likely I lack a full appreciation of the arduousness involved in national administration and management — the long hours, the sleepless nights.

I find it hard to trust experienced politicians, because gaining experience means making mistakes and learning, and the mistakes made in positions of such authority and responsibility are not easily forgotten.

For more election news, analysis and general banter join us HERE

If I believe in the system of democracy, will I have to swallow my reservations? No. I’m most likely voting for Lorna Bogue from the Green Party.

That doesn’t mean I have to forget about my scruples with her party. I am strongly pro-choice and find their policies on abortion too restrictive. My friend Éoin reminded me of the Shell to Sea campaign — how the Greens, who were in government at the time, initially supported the movement against the pipeline — but later did a complete turnaround.

Eamon Ryan even spoke out in favour of the plans, listing the benefits of the project — including the €1.7bn in corporation taxes it could bring in. What I am trying to communicate here is that, although I am critical of the party and its history, I am still voting. Jim O’Connell from the People Before Profit Alliance will also be on my ballot, despite my recognition of some weaknesses in their policies.

It's all to play for as Election 2016 campaigns enter their final days https://t.co/qJKrzBNKHd (DOD) #GE16 pic.twitter.com/7lsAXaI5Wh

— Irish Examiner (@irishexaminer) February 22, 2016

One Facebook friend I have posted a status saying that, as it would be difficult for them to vote, they would abstain from doing so if someone else with opposing views would do the same. The comment section has been boiling with debate all week.

Voting is important, even if it might seem that there is no party in the entire system that you feel can represent you. Maybe that is the case. If so, I would encourage you to hop off the couch, march down to the polling station, and write that opinion all over your piece of paper in big angry letters.

A spoiled vote is more meaningful than nothing at all.

For more election news, analysis and general banter join us HERE