COMMENT: Ireland eyes Italian voting
experiment
IT’S not every day the Italian political system gets held up as
an example other countries in the world could follow (although they did
at one time have the brilliant idea of introducing a tax on pornography).
But the recent Italian elections should be being watched with some interest
in Ireland. For amidst the speculation over whether Silvio Berlusconi
would retain power the Italians were quietly carrying out a new experiment.
For the first time in history Italians living abroad were given the opportunity
to elect their own representatives to the country’s parliament —
18 of them in total.
Later this month the elected members will take up their seats and for
the first time give the Italian Diaspora a direct say in matters at home.
It’s too early to say whether the experiment will work — but
at least it’s a constructive step.
The Irish in Britain have been campaigning for similar measures to be
introduced for our community.
Direct representation in Seanad Éireann for the Irish abroad would
give emigrant issues a fair hearing — and ensure they were kept
on the political agenda in Ireland.
What’s more, if the Italian model were followed and a small, set
number of Senators elected for countries such as Britain and America where
there are strong Irish populations the often-quoted fears over the Diaspora
haaving too strong a say in political matters back home would be negated.
The Italians in Britain have embraced the chance to vote in their first
elections — wouldn’t it be good if the Irish were offered
the same chance?
Dedication of a real fan
BEING a soccer fan can be hard work at times — especially when
your team rarely wins anything. So all credit to Gareth Hayes who has
spent years following Manchester City.
For the City-mad Irishman travels over from Westmeath for every game both
home and away. In that time his team has failed to win one major trophy
— but it’s not stopped him sleeping in airports and train
stations and travelling thousands of miles just to watch his heroes.
In fact as you read this he’s probably already travelling to City’s
next game.
And if that’s not dedication enough he also sports 24 Manchester
City tattoos on his body.
Little wonder he’s been chosen as the latest Premiership Fan of
the Month. It’s a just reward for his dedication. Now, if Manchester
City could just win something for him...
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