Established parties to blame for rise of SF
However, what I would like to ask Justice Minister Michael McDowell, the Taoiseach and members of all the other established parties is this: why do they think support for Sinn Féin is increasing?
It may be hard for Ahern, McDowell, et al, to accept, but the rise of Sinn Féin is a reflection of the wretched standards of public representation offered by the Government parties.
What does it say about the main parties when voters are more drawn to Sinn Féin given what we all know about their past (and present)?
Does it not make FF, FG, Labour and the PDs think about why people choose to give the most precious thing that exists in a democracy the vote to the likes of Sinn Féin, and not to them?
Sinn Féin are there as a protest vote for some, and for others as a party that seems more energised and original.
The Taoiseach, his ministers and the opposition can wag their fingers all they want at the people, but the hard truth remains that responsibility for the rise of Sinn Féin lies with them, and not with us.
Declan Cashin,
Callan Road,
Kilkenny.
