Political Dynasties in Irish politics

iamstop

Nepotism or carrying on the family trade?

There are countless Father/Son, Aunt/Uncle situations in the Government.

Direct quote from the Independent today about Brian Lenihan:

"His father, Brian snr, had a long political career, culminating in his period as Tanaiste, and Mary O'Rourke, his aunt, was deputy leader of Fianna Fail and held a number of cabinet positions.

When Brian snr died in November 1995, Fianna Fail inevitably turned to the son."

So do you think there is too much of this? Do we need some fresh blood in the heart of Irish politics or do you feel there is nothing wrong with this?

johngalway

Former President Hillarys son to run for FF in Clare, where his father was once a TD.

He must not think he has a chance in Dublin where he currently lives and works (I believe/subject to correction).

Manach

Fairly similar in other countries. Offhand I read a report on the Indian parliament, which mentioned the same type of political generational inheritance accounting for a high proportion of the seats in parliament.

later12

If it is nepotism, then ultimately it is the public who are guilty of that nepotism. This is the democracy that we have chosen, and we must live with the consequences.

I heard an interesting point being made recently that when you go back through history, far more politicians' relatives have been unsuccessful in getting elected than have been successful - currently about 16% of TDs and senators are the offspring of TDs and Senators, and that wouldn't be totally out of line amongst professionals whose children would have had a high degree of 'job exposure' such as vets, jockeys, doctors, schoolteachers, shopkeepers and farmers, or even sportspeople.

Basically if you're the kid of a TD and your Dad has you traipsing up and down the estates canvassing on Saturday mornings, you're far more likely to get involved in local politics than the son of a farmer or a pharmacist.

The_Minister

iamstop wrote: »

Direct quote from the Independent today about Brian Lenihan:

"His father, Brian snr, had a long political career, culminating in his period as Tanaiste, and Mary O'Rourke, his aunt, was deputy leader of Fianna Fail and held a number of cabinet positions.

When Brian snr died in November 1995, Fianna Fail inevitably turned to the son."

Don't forget his brother.

mikemac

It's tough, most candidates fail at their first election and more fail more then once.

The connections help in the selection committees though which is the first step to get on the ballot for a party

Then it's up to the voters.

johngalway

Ned O'Keefe is retiring, his son will be on the ticket.

steelcityblues

This is an endemic problem in FF, FG and Labour.

if anyone from these parties says on your doorstep that they are bringing a new team, remind them of the surnames: O'Keefe, Lenihan, Coveney, Spring, and so on.

LeixlipRed

Don't forget the Kitt/Brady scum too

iamstop

Thanks all,

there are plenty, of that we are all sure, but is it right? In light of the Egyptian father/son regime perhaps this is all the more topical.