Engagement of electorate is essential

In a broad sense, it would be healthy for our democracy if Dana Rosemary Scallon proves to be successful in seeking to be nominated to contest the forthcoming presidential election.

This would not be to endorse her candidature, or suggest that President Mary McAleese should be removed from the office, but rather to advocate that such an important office warrants an election.

Currently, it is considered no more than a political expediency, an attitude which is, ultimately, inimical to the body politic.

There is a stark contrast between the frenzy generated by the US presidential race and the ambivalence displayed here not just by the political parties, but by the general public.

There is, of course, very little in common in terms of the respective roles and power wielded between of the American model and our own presidency, but that does not justify the apathy displayed towards the latter.

What would contribute to a more enthusiastic public response to presidential elections would be an easing of the terms under which a nomination can be sought.

This was addressed by an Oireachtas All-Party Committee on the Constitution five years ago, which produced a number of recommendations which deserve to be re-visited.

That committee favoured reducing the age limit for candidates from 35 years to 18 and that 10, not 20, signatures of Oireachtas members be required for a presidential nomination, or alternatively 10,000 signatures from members of the public.

Another train of thought is that presidents should be allowed serve only one term and what might also be considered is the reduction of the term from seven to five years.

It may not be the most pressing of reforms that needs to be addressed, but the process of electing our President badly needs a make-over.