Elections and “celebrity” candidates

Sir, – As one of the one point something million electorate in the Midlands North West European constituency, we can now breathe again after a marathon count. The European election itself and the results will no doubt be talking points for some time to come.

It would be easy to just move on and not discuss some of the issues that were raised by this election. For example, Fine Gael’s continuing decision to treat the European Parliament as an opportunity to put “celebrity” names on the ballot paper is remarkable. Yes, it secures votes but what does it say about the party’s view of the electorate? As the GAA, Rose of Tralee festival, and Dancing with the Stars have proved useful sources for names, where next for future candidates? Eurovision?

Other matters deserve attention. In 2024, a system that requires a five-day count is way past its sell-by date. While the suggestion will result in howls of opposition from many, it is time to revisit electronic voting. We use, and depend, on electronic systems for almost every aspect of our lives; it is time that exercising our democratic mandate is now included.

And of course, it isn’t possible to leave the subject of the European election and the Midlands North West constituency without asking for a major rethink about its bloated size. Donegal and Kildare in the same constituency. Really? – Yours, etc,

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T GERARD BENNETT,

Bunbrosna,

Co Westmeath.

Sir, – Those who are questioning the election of celebrities unblooded in the political arena might pause and recall the arrival of one Volodymyr Zelensky. Career change must be encouraged. Good luck to the MEP class of 2024. – Yours, etc,

DOROTHY BARRY,

Mallow,

Co Cork.

A chara, – Our electoral registers need to be updated and constantly monitored for accuracy. With three eligible voters in our house, we received six polling cards, each with a slight variation in name or address. While all of us voted, this still constituted a 50 per cent turnout from this household at the ballot box. If this is replicated throughout the country, even to a lesser degree, it reveals a serious discrepancy in voter turnout statistics. – Is mise,

JOHN KELLY

Bennekerry,

Carlow.