The people of Northern Ireland go to the polls today more in hope than in expectation. Great opportunities beckon, in terms of a devolved, powersharing government, innovative local administration and economic development. But years of discrimination and violence, of tribal loyalties and political mistrust have the capacity to stultify progress and derail the hopes of an entire generation. All that can be said with certainty is that the necessary adjustments are closer now than they were before the last Assembly elections.
Interminable political bickering and the stop-go nature of the peace process disguise important developments that have taken place. Since 2003, the IRA has got rid of its weapons and Sinn Féin has endorsed the Police Service of Northern Ireland. The Democratic Unionist Party has consolidated its position as the leader of unionism and the Rev Ian Paisley has indicated a willingness to become first minister in a powersharing administration. But, conditions apply.
It is to be hoped that a weary electorate will realise that the basic building blocks for a functioning executive and assembly are now more available than ever before. While the Irish and British governments have pushed for a powersharing arrangement under the St Andrews and Belfast agreements, they have also signalled their intent to dissolve the Assembly by March 26th and administer control of Northern Ireland in the event of that not happening. Such a development would, inevitably, breathe life into dissident and paramilitary forces.
Large sections of the electorate in Northern Ireland are losing confidence in the ability of politicians to take responsibility for running their lives. Reports from constituencies suggest there is a growing level of apathy among voters, frustrated at the lack of progress, who aspire to a better quality of life. Nine years ago, an outline political settlement was agreed on both sides of the Border but the details are still being squabbled over. The two governments are running out of time and patience.
In spite of disagreements and difficulties between and within the various political parties, it is important for voters to remember that today's election can mark a turning point in the politics of Northern Ireland. It can bring about the formation of a devolved government, a newly-empowered police force for the whole community, a real opportunity to put the Troubles behind and chart a new course for the younger generation in a new dispensation.
The voters of Northern Ireland must be tired of being told that history could be made, once again; that much is at stake, once again; that they are on the cusp of something or other, once again. Just imagine that rhetoric in the Republic! It is far more realistic to say that this is the election that is closest to producing an inclusive government in Northern Ireland. And if the electorate want it, they must cast their vote. They must put their future in their own hands.