Sarge, no option for 'dont vote'?
Thats the option I'd select. I, like most lads my age, I know, dont vote.
We grew up in Nationalist/Republican areas of Derry. Growing up, I was interested in politics, enjoyed politics. I was interested in both sides of the argumument. I was open minded......despite my upbringing and all the influences that a teenage lad faces growing up in republican areas.
There is now real 'middle ground' in NI politics. No realistic alternative. Your either one side or the other. That fucks me off. Especially because the 'side' I'm expected to lean towards (Sinn Fein/SDLP) do nothing to inspire me to vote.
When I was 16, after a few run ins with our community defenders (Sinn Fein/PIRA/Vigilantes), out of spite, I promised myself I would vote Womens Coalition or some other nonsensical party.
Whilst I still keep a keen eye on our local politics and politics of the north, there has not been a party or a cause that I have felt the need to vote for.
When I talk to my da/ma, they grew up at a time where their vote was a big deal. "People died so you could vote" almost guilt tripping me into it.
The only thing I like about the elections are the memories they bring back. Making crate loads of petrol bombs and paint bombs. Good times. Idiotic now I think about it, especially how, with a bit of maturity my views on the world have changed.