A debate has erupted on one of our local anti water metering pages about Sinn Feins place in the struggle. The desire for unity among all forces who ultimately want to see the water tax abolished is understandable but there is absolutely nothing to fear from a robust and fraternal debate over vital strategy and tactics where there is disagreement. Im reposting my comment here in the debate on the Coolock Kilmore page The issue here is whether or not advocating the boycott is an essential part of winning the battle against the water tax. The overwhelming sentiment I have encountered on the demos and at the meetings is in favour of an organised boycott. Sinn Fein instead pose non payment as a purely individual unorganized gesture and give greater emphasis on us electing them into government in April 2016 if this government goes full term. But what if they dont get into government? What if the traditional establishment parties come to unprecedented arrangements to keep Sinn Fein out of government? The best guarantee we have of ensuring whatever government we have next abolish the water charges is by building a boycott. Thats how we beat it last time and thats how the Poll Tax was defeated in Britain. Sinn Fein too often ignore those past examples of victories and consistently sap morale by reminding us of defeats like the bin tax and property tax. There are reasons for every victory and defeat. The point is to learn from both and the essential lesson is stick together, give confidence to those who have doubts and they cant touch us. Sinn Feins message has a disempowering side to it. That said I support them having their say at meetings and protests but they should expect to be challenged about the strategy.
Posted on: Sun, 19 Oct 2014 15:15:05 +0000
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