I am corresponding with regard to Dear Gay, the recent RTÉ One programme about Gay Byrne’s contribution to Irish society, culture and the zeitgeist of the times.
t was bitterly disappointing that the show, somewhat predictably, was hijacked by the agendas of the feminist and woke constituencies. Furthermore, it was used, yet again, to bash the Church and the people of Ireland who still hold a sense of morality that may be at odds with those deemed trendy today.
The programme simply raked over the well-burned coals of scandals that have been brought to light in this country over the past several decades.
Naturally, this had the impact of allowing even more anger and judgment to be unleashed, as if there hasn’t been enough already.
Why was the opportunity to portray this man’s amazing broadcasting legacy ambushed by the usual liberal suspects? Are we not all so weary as a country of these horrendous, sad histories?
Can we not move on as a progressive nation and promote a future of hope?
Surely this would be a more progressive approach than constantly churning up and sensationalising the horrors of our past, just to keep getting one over on the Church, the establishment and the quiet majority of this country.
John Smith
Co Westmeath
Help is needed before fishing is lost for good to islanders
The following is an open letter to An Taoiseach Micheál Martin, on behalf of islanders who rely on fishing for their livelihood.
As the representative organisation for Ireland’s offshore islands, you can surely understand our significant concerns regarding the historic and ongoing treatment of our fisherpersons.
This is a matter of huge importance regarding island community livelihoods and sustainability, not to mention heritage and traditions.
Island communities are intimately acquainted with the consequences of changes to fishing rights and regulations inflicted through the years.
Islanders are, by their very nature, people of the sea. To sacrifice their ability to make a living through life-learned skills they are passionate about is beyond unreasonable.
This continued decimation of the Irish fleet has been magnified with the onset of Brexit. The Irish fishing industry is now fighting for its life.
As Taoiseach, we consider it appropriate for you to personally intervene in this serious situation.
We implore you to act to prevent the loss of hundreds of jobs, a way of life and a key element to coastal communities, Irish heritage and tradition.
We ask all involved with the control and regulation of the fishing industry to have a hard look at the consequences of their actions against a proud and respected Irish livelihood.
There is a better way.
Aisling Moran
Chair, Comhdháil Oileáin na hÉireann (The Irish Islands Federation)
Lockdown may be over, but restrictions unlikely to vanish
I see the Oireachtas Transport Committee wants to reduce our travelling options. Having shown that we can be locked down, will we now be locked in?
As Shakespeare’s Miranda put it: “O brave new world, that hath such people in ’t.”
Cal Hyland
Rosscarbery, Co Cork
Return of foreign travel is all too reminiscent of Father Ted
The Government has decided to open the country for foreign travel on July 19. Is it just a coincidence that this was also the date Father Ted, Dougal and Jack were going on holidays?
During the episode, Ted asks Dougal what is significant about July 19. Dougal responds by saying it was the date Marathon became Snickers. With that, Fr Jack bursts into the room and announces: “Holidays!”
Jim Hacker, of 1980s sitcom Yes Minister, often opined that all coincidences were perfectly harmless. July 19 could be called a classic Irish holiday coincidental date.
Kieran O’Regan
Dublin 9
Applying Local Property Tax to newer homes is only right
The announcement by the Government to apply Local Property Tax (LPT) for all properties built since 2013 is welcomed.
In fact, the LPT should be substantially increased from its present rate. How else can we raise revenue? In fact, it should be based on a higher percentage of the property value.
Paul Doran
Clondalkin, Dublin
