"but I am not yet convinced that reclaiming the centre ground is the solution to these problems."
Given the way politics works nowadays I tend to agree with you, but until we have a democratic system whereby our elected representatives are bound to carry out what they promised, the left appears to be the best bet on a very poorly loaded table at present
I have been impressed by somne of the examples of 'People Power' here in Ireland where major policies like water metering has been overturned (twice)
Referenda have brought about major changes regarding ame-sex marriage and pregnancy termination - I never believed either would ever happen in my lifetime
Another is being mooted at present that will seek to remove from the constitution that 'a woman's rightful place is in the home'
There was a disturbing set-back lst week when balaclava-clad, un-marked police assisted an eviction of homelessness protestors being carried out by a firm employing ex-Paras
At least we have proportional representation that manages to strike some sort of balance
Jim Carroll