Madam, – Now that the Government parties have shown consistency by not moving to fill the vacancies in the Dáil, could I suggest the following, given that the general election was held and candidates elected?
When a vacancy arises for whatever reason: death, the person is thrown in jail etc, why not take in the last candidate eliminated? It cannot be any less or more democratic or satisfactory than the present situation and avoids the expense, litter and nuisance of a byelection. – Yours, etc,
Madam, – I’m amazed at the flippant disregard for the principles of a republic and democracy shown by the Government in delaying the three byelections currently due in Donegal South-West, Dublin South and Waterford.
Do the citizens of these constituencies not have an equal right to elected representation in the Dáil? Does the fear of whatever outcome override the constitutional entitlement of the people?
How can Ireland send observers abroad to advise on democracy or judge free and fair elections elsewhere if her own people aren’t properly represented? – Yours, etc,