Sir, - I would like to expand on Mr Niall Andrews's proposal (July 12th) to lower the age limit for Presidential candidates, which presently requires a candidate to be over 35.
Any change will undoubtedly require a referendum as the age requirement is enshrined in our Constitution. I would like to point out another anomaly: the fact that despite being able to vote at 18 years, one must reach 21 to be elected to Dail Eireann.
We have a young population and this should be reflected in our public representatives. Young people should be encouraged to take an interest in the running of their country.
If Mr Andrews is going to pursue a change to accommodate young candidates for the Presidency, I would appeal to him to also pursue the lowering of the age for election to the Dail as well. - Yours, etc., NIALL SKELLY,
Editor,
The Big Issue,
Amiens Street,
Dublin 1.