For those of you reading this that that are not living in Ireland, you might not know that there is a General Election taking place here at the end of this month. I just wanted to take a few moments to share my thoughts on a particular aspect of this election campaign

I’ve enjoyed quite a few debates in the last few weeks, both online and offline, about the relevant merits and downsides of each party and their policies. I have however noticed a very common thread, which is something that has been festering over the last few elections and in my view has come to a head in this election. What I’m referring to is the sheer number of people who say “there’s no-one I want to vote for”, or that “none of the candidates represent my views”.

General Elections in this country come around at least every 5 years. If you feel you’re not represented by any of the candidates/parties standing for election, stop wingeing, and get involved in the process. If all the people who moan about not being represented, organised themselves, surely there would be enough among them who would be prepared to stand as candidates.

I’d love to see this happening, but it’s probably wishful thinking. I’m involved in a number of committees and voluntary organisations, and it’s been my experience that the people who make the most noise, especially when things are going wrong, are the same people who are aren’t prepared to give up their time to contribute to the fixing of the issues, and ensuring that they don’t happen again.

After this election, it will be 5 years till the next one (maybe less). Here’s hoping that those people complaining about lack of representation get their finger out, and make sure that their views are represented the next time around.

If you wait for someone else to step forward to represent your views, it’s more than likely that your views won’t be represented. There is a time for moaning, and a time for taking action. I think the time to end moaning is rapidly approaching, and the time for action is now upon us.