Age of presidential candidates

Sir, – Our Constitution theoretically permits a 21-year-old to serve as a government minister and exercise more political power on a daily basis than our president.

Why therefore must we discriminate against somebody below the age of 35 exercising the functions of president?

If a 21-year-old can theoretically deliver the budget, I’m prepared to trust him or her with the Áras for seven years. – Yours, etc, DANIEL GRIFFIN Dunboyne, Co Meath. A chara, – I cannot imagine myself voting for a very young presidential candidate, but I do not believe that my preference should be enshrined in the Constitution.

There are many individuals I would not wish to see in high office, but, as a believer in the democratic process, I would not prohibit them from standing either. Is it too much to ask that the electorate separate principle from partiality before rejecting the proposed amendment? – Is mise, JOSEPH AIVALIKLI Greystones, Co Wicklow.