On a recent visit to Castleblayney College, Fine Gael General Election Candidate, Cllr Heather Humphreys was asked to speak on the issue of the role of politics for the younger electorate.  In her address, Cllr Humphreys urged the students to exercise their right to vote, stressing that now more than ever it is important that they have their say.

“The decisions currently being made at government level will have a profound impact for each and every one of your futures. You are all aware of the situation that Ireland currently finds itself in. You only have to turn on the television, listen to the radio or read a paper. IMF. Bailouts. Bankers. There is plenty of bad news out there. It’s depressing and it’s disheartening. It’s easy to see why people, young and old are becoming disillusioned with politics. Our country is facing monumental problems and the shenanigans that have gone on at government level over the last few weeks only serves to further alienate the public. I’m sure you’ve all heard the expression “Politicians – They’re all the same”. What I want to tell you is this - We’re not all the same. Do not lose faith. Use your vote.”

Cllr Humphreys said that the students should not merely vote for the sake of it, instead they should all strive to make an informed decision. She encouraged them engage with politics, to research party policy on the issue’s relevant to them and above all else, to ask questions.

She said that the students should be very excited about their first election.               “The right to vote is a privilege. It represents a coming of age on your behalf and places a certain degree of responsibility on your shoulders. Elections are the peoples’ day. You decide who you want. Your power at the ballot box is absolute. As the saying goes, Don’t complain about the government. Change it.”

Cllr Humphreys concluded by saying that it was vital that all the students check the electoral register to ensure that they are entitled to vote, this could be done online or at their local authority or Garda station.