Seven ways to improve TDs’ public standing

THAT was a fascinating letter from Jason FitzHarris (‘TDs and MPs: how they rate,’ Irish Examiner, February 1).

However, nothing will change. People will remain cynical about politics but not because they are disinterested. In fact, Irish people are among the most articulate in the world on this subject.

They know that vested interest will always win over logic. Why would TDs vote to work harder or be paid less?

Here are seven suggestions that might improve their public standing:

Make it a constitutional duty for all citizens to vote in elections. Introduce an Australian-style voting system.

Ban anyone from becoming a TD whose parents, grandparents or close relatives held the job. Sweep away our incredibly incestuous political system.

Take the ego out of politics. Ban the use of the pronoun 'I' by TDs.

Remove first-class travel privileges to reduce costs and motivate improvements to transport for the masses.

Make all TDs spend Friday or Saturday nights in A&E, or a week teaching in a State school to get back in touch with reality.

Replace existing pension arrangements with Personal Retirement Savings Accounts (PRSAs) good enough for electors, so surely good enough for TDs.

Require a referendum to approve remuneration proposals that are greater than the increase in the cost of living.

Could readers suggest any other ideas?

Donal Fellows

70 ul.Prosta 00-838

Warsaw

Poland