WITH THE age of both Joe Biden and Donald Trump, the likely candidates for the 2024 US presidential election, being a matter of concern Nikki Haley, a former Ambassador to the United Nations, is suggesting “mental competency tests” for politicians over 75. But why stop there?
There is a joke that an indicator for mental incompetency is that you would want to be a politician although most are actually sincere and hardworking. But of recent, some have faltered.
It is assumed that politicians are the best we have to lead us but if we tested them all for mental acuity, moral fiber and honesty, many could soon be unemployed.
Many occupations have a retirement age so that people can enjoy themselves before the effects of age slow them but in reality, it is often to get rid of them before they are no longer able to do their jobs and become a drag on the business.
Although it is being discussed with enthusiasm these tests are not going to be voted for, in fear that a number of politicians will be removed. And if they apply the moral fibre and honesty tests as well, many parliaments might be close to empty.
Think about who you vote for and select someone that will make the country a better place.
***
Venice staying afloat financially
There is likely to be a fee to visit Venice from 2024 onwards although a $5US cost is minimal for such a beautiful place and it will bring some financial support to help the city to stay afloat, literally.
Venice is, as most people know, facing being damaged because of the rising waters, although ironically the canals ran dry in February because of the severe weather conditions.
There is also the problem of overcrowding as anyone who has visited St. Mark.s Square will be only too aware of, although a modest visitors fee may reduce the numbers and a much higher fee might actually make a difference.
Sometimes you can appreciate the beauty of a site without risking harming it. Climbing the Pyramids in Egypt has been discouraged and then banned for a long time, and in Australia climbing Uluru has been banned for cultural reasons, as well as being dangerous to climb.
Which is more important, the cultural site or taking an Instagram photo of it that might cause damage to the site? (dfitzger@melbpc.org.au)/PN
