EDITORIAL: The General Election should not be treated as a game

Readers should not expect any dull moments between now and the long, long, long anticipated General Election.

This week saw the shock departure of Tipperary TD Jackie Cahill for health reasons. A development that will no doubt change the political landscape in the Premier County.

But, while some were dealing with some very serious matters, the Taoiseach said on Tuesday that he would not say when the election would be but it would be a Friday before Christmas. And as The Journal reported: “There aren’t many Fridays left to choose from.”

One might think he was teasing the next season of House of the Dragon but alas no, just the fate of the country.

Sometimes the powers that be forget that when they speak with the press they are speaking to their constituents. Sometimes public representatives forget that they and their colleagues represent real people and not themselves.

A tense moment at this week’s Thurles-Templemore Municipal District Council proved to a be case in point. Cllr Jim Ryan suggested writing to the Minister for Finance, Jack Chambers, for funding (perhaps Apple tax money) to reopen the Thurles Skateboard Park, which has been closed for repairs for some time.

He also suggested the Minister was remiss in his recent visit in not meeting with more of the district’s councillors.

Several other councillors (mostly Fianna Fáil and Fine Gael) and the Cathaoirleach expressed the opinion that this was a ridiculous suggestion. And a row ensued.

But, let’s not forget that Jim Ryan did top the polls in the Thurles LEA and represents a lot of people who may or may not vote for Government parties.

So, going forward perhaps politicians from all parties, levels of Government and all walks of life could remember that this is not a game.

There are many people the current Government has failed time and time again and they would like their say. There are many people who for their entire life have supported the current Government parties, ministers, TDs and councillors and would like to know when they can do their civic duty again.

The next few weeks should not be seen as a chance to one-up one another or a contest to see whose party banner can fly the highest.

This is a serious situation and people are getting sick of the games.