Dear Reader,
It is a well-known fact that for those in Ireland who possess their own house, they are indeed fortunate, and could very possibly constitute the final generation to enjoy this privilege. A considerable number of observations made by Michael McDowell regarding Sinn Féin’s strategies and struggles are completely justified. However, discrediting their approach to housing does not seem to be fair. He argues that their proposal would, in effect, transform the Government into landlords, thereby failing to fulfil the fundamental aspiration of the Irish people to have their own homes.
Does Mr McDowell not realise that there is an entire generation whose chances of owning their own houses are as likely as them landing on the moon? We must be cognisant of the fact that countless individuals, now in their early middle years, have not been able to wed, establish a family, or nurture any expectancy of living anywhere other than a room in their parents’ homes or sharing a house with others at a rate in excess of 1000 euros per month indefinitely.
In bygone times, the government and local authorities were considered reliable providers and landlords of family homes for citizens, and they have the potential to regain this reputation.
Best regards,
John Cronin,
Dublin 6W.