It's no secret that the country has left many people feeling disenfranchised with politics, and this alienation is probably felt most by young people.
Young people who are struggling on Jobsbridge schemes, seeing their friends emigrate in droves, and unable to afford to move out or build a life without fear of financial decimation.
However, there is an appetite out there for real change, and many young people are becoming far more politically aware.
Gary Gannon is a 29-year-old candidate running in Dublin Central for the Social Democrats, and this video written by himself and playwright Grace Dyas and produced by Area Man Productions, really sums up the worries and concerns of many citizens, who feel disenchanted by the current political system.
Regardless of your political views, the message is a powerful one.
'If' — Gary Gannon for Dublin CentralEvery day I hear the word 'If'… I believe that in a republic, the word 'If' should represent our hopes and not our fears. If we keep voting for the same thing, how can we expect a different result?Watch my video below and if you want something different for the next 5 years in Ireland, like, share, donate, get involved and together, let's start reimagining the word 'If'.
Posted by Gary Gannon for Dublin Central on Thursday, 11 February 2016