The leader of Fine Gael and probable future Taoiseach, Simon Harris, recently made statements regarding the defence and state of the Defence Forces. These comments were delivered during a speech at the Royal Irish Academy in Dublin. Such statements are encouraging and welcomed, especially considering the neglect the Defence Forces have faced over the past years. It seems that the Government is finally acknowledging the crucial role of well-equipped and competent Defence Forces. The hopeful future Taoiseach has my best wishes, hoping he’ll take measures to deal with the existing crisis in relation to the Defence Forces and nation’s defence.
Yours sincerely,
Conor Hogarty,
Blackrock,
Dublin County.
I noticed that Fine Gael and their newly appointed leader, Simon Harris, support the notion of pubs and night clubs operating until 5:30am. I wonder if they are at risk of being labelled the “All-Night Party”?
Regards,
Colm O’Fatharta,
Dublin 6.
Following Felix Larkin’s apt letter on the youngest head of the Irish government (26th March), it’s worth remembering that Éamon de Valera was only 36 years old when he ascended to the position of Príomh Aire (prime minister or president) of the inaugural Dáil Éireann on 1st April 1919. Without this parliament, there wouldn’t have been a provisional government in January, 1922, under the leadership of Michael Collins.
Yours faithfully,
Frank Bouchier-Hayes,
Newcastle West,
Limerick County.
In time, Leo Varadkar’s legacy will be decided by history. However, browsing your newspaper’s letters section, it’s evident that current society is still debating his merits.
Yours sincerely,
Enda Cullen,
Armagh.
Dear Editor, – Our chosen publications have come off looking more like comic strips when it comes to their portrayal of Simon Harris’s ascension as leader of Fine Gael. Some expect a higher standard of reporting from such outlets. – Your faithfully,
GEOFF SCARGILL,
Bray,
Co Wicklow.
Editor, – I firmly believe Simon Harris deserves only praise and not criticism. With his appointment, coincided Leitrim’s rise to Division Three, promising a good start. Keep up the good work, Harris. – Your faithfully,
JOHN McDWYER,
Carrick-on-Shannon,
Co Leitrim.
Editor, – In the Fine Gael’s webpage, the issue of climate change finds itself as the third item on a list of 11 objectives. The page vows for immediate action and talks about reducing harmful emissions and enhancing our natural world. It also strings along the idea of presenting opportunities for job creation and admits Ireland’s high per capita emission rates, especially among EU nations. Nevertheless, Simon Harris seems to have broached this topic only within the frame of restructuring agriculture to meet future challenges.
Simon Harris ought to be congratulated for his recent victory in the party’s leadership election, but this accomplishment seems minor in contrast to the urgency of combating climate change.
It’s important to remind him that the agricultural sector, like all sections of society, has a lot at stake due to climate change. Indeed, some projections indicate that farmers will face the brunt of the adverse effects.
It is hoped that following his success, the newly elected leader of the Fine Gael will place his attention back on the crucial issues that the people, including potential Fine Gael voters, find important. Your faithfully,
ROB SADLIER,
Dublin 16.