Madam, – Since April 2008 I have, with some friends, tried to set up a new political party/movement but without success.
Over the Christmas period I have had time to reflect. As a result I have come to the conclusion it is not a new political party the people of Ireland want. They are sick and tired of the present parties without the thought of new political parties on the scene.
From talking to many people around the country, it seems they don’t know what they want, but see the present political system as dysfunctional and not meeting present-day needs. In their eyes, all parties, (especially Fianna Fail and to a lesser degree Fine Gael) have manipulated the party system for the benefit of their own selfish interests and not for the good of the country.
Under such circumstances I feel it is pointless having a general election, as most voters have no confidence in the present system. I believe the time has come for a complete political reappraisal. I would firmly suggest, via an immediate referendum, that the present dysfunctional political democratic system (including the presidency, and all county councils) be put in abeyance for a period of say, five years.
In its place I would suggest setting up a new council of state comprising about 12 men and women with proven ability from the business/ economic/ academic/media world. I would also suggest an advisory panel that would include the present head of the Central Bank to help sort out our banking mess.
The new council of State would immediately call in all heads of government departments and give them six months (and only six months) to “streamline” their departments and reduce salaries commensurate to our present economic situation. All quangos would cease with immediate effect.
There would be a complete overhaul of local authorities and how they charge for services; rents/rates, etc. They would become more “user-friendly” and assist small businesses, especially the retail sector and get our towns and cities revitalised. A commission would be set up to look into our failed political system and produce a system of government that has robust mechanisms to prevent the pitfalls and abuses which have occurred over the past 40 years. – Yours, etc,