Speaking at the count centre in Ashbourne in the wake of the
news that a resounding ‘no, no’ vote has been cast by Irish
citizens in relation to the family and care referenda, Aontú
representative for Ashbourne Brandon Scott said that the lack
of political opposition to the referenda was a damning
indictment of how politics has become inaccessible for so many.
Aontú was the only political party to advocate for a no vote to
both proposals, and 26-year-old Mr Scott insisted today that
“the disconnect between political parties and the electorate has
never been more pronounced.”
He further added said: “I’m delighted that
the voters have correctly understood that this was a campaign
marked by Government virtue signalling that was not going to
make a difference to the bread-and-butter issues affecting
ordinary struggling citizens.”
However, he added that the Government must be held to
account for the huge waste of taxpayers’ money and the way
the proposals were handled.
“We in Aontú have repeatedly said that the current wording
around women’s duties in the home is archaic, and we would
like to see it changed – but not at the expense of the word
‘mothers’ in the constitution.
As has also been recognised by Independent Senator Tom
Clonan, himself a carer to his son, these proposals provided no
tangible commitment to those who lovingly provide care in this
country. ‘Strive’ is not a commitment.
“I’m very proud of our leader Peadar Tóibín. We have been the
only political party in the Oireachtas challenging the
inextricably entwined Government and NGOs, because we
actually listen to the people and take on their concerns.
“This is a watershed moment. In the face of no credible political
opposition in Ireland, Aontú will deliver for ordinary people and
what the people of Ireland need – not the vested interests.
“The disconnect between what the people of Ireland want and
what all of the other political parties support has never been
more pronounced. Aontú is not the same and I want to deliver
for you,” Scott said.
