Yesterday, while the Commonwealth were deciding whether future male or female members of one family should rule over them, there was an election in Ireland unlike anything we've ever seen in the UK. They were voting for their new Head of State - their President.
In Ireland, the Head of State is a largely ceremonial role. I know there are ill-informed monarchists who will say that Elizabeth Windsor, in her position as monarch, has a largely ceremonial role but they are ignoring the legal status and powers which the monarch really has.
The Irish President holds office for seven years and can only be re-elected once. Although political parties put forward candidates the role itself is non political.
Why can't we have such a system in the UK? If Liz Windsor, or any of her descendants, wishes to stand for election they can. And if they win then that's all well and good but why do the British public tolerate a system whereby the Head of State, and all the powers that includes, is selected by which birth canal a child passes through rather than their suitability for the job or being democratically elected?
It's time for a change. There are already parties planned for Liz's jubilee next year. Why not use them to celebrate her retirement and the introduction of an accountable Head of State?
It's time to learn from the Irish.
Couldn't agree more, though I think we are still the minority.
ReplyDeleteI find it astounding that we as a country still have a monarchy,I find it repugnant to be ruled over by a family that is no different to any other family. If our country really want a monarch why can't we vote for them we could have a tacky Saturday night program to get out king or queen.