Gazette Comment (From Gazette Series)

Gazette Comment

NOMINATIONS for district and parish council election close next Friday.

For the two parish councils up for re-election this year closure of nominations could spell the start of a healthy battle for election. Or it could signal yet another indication of the apathy towards any sort of politics.

The retiring chairman of Kingswood Parish Council has expressed his desire to see an election in June so those representing the village are not just doing so by default.

Even if enough people do stand to make an election - up to five councillors may be needed in Kingswood to replace those who could be stepping down and four in Hillesley - will people bother to vote?

This problem is not just symptomatic of grass-routes politics. Our track record in Europe is not much better - the last European elections in 1999 had only 24 percent average turn-out.

If people want to make a difference to their communities now is the time to do it. Giving up time to join a parish or town council is a big commitment but we are frequently told how rewarding it can be.

Even those who do not want to be involved in the decision-making should at least make the decision on June 10 on who is making these decisions for them.