Dear Editor, – In response to Justine McCarthy’s piece “Political Rush to Right Can Only Aid Democracy” (Opinion & Analysis, March 29th), allegations have been made that Willie O’Dea and I display a preference for leaning rightwards politically.
Throughout my political career, the interpretation of the term “right wing” has drastically evolved. It seems like cuts are being made in the social responsibility and equal distribution of wealth and income factors to expand the focus on liberal values and individual rights.
These allegations about my supposed inclination to turn right may have arisen from my stance on abortion and my criticism of the recent referendum proposals.
The majority of those who cast their votes in the referendums concurred with my view on the latter matter.
In regard to abortion, it is accurate to say that I am against any form of human life termination, much like my stance against the death penalty.
Additionally, I am concerned about the recent inclinations within Europe to consider militarism as a solution, firmly believing that politics, peaceful civilian action, and dialogues should always be chosen over warfare.
My commitment to aiding the underprivileged in society remains unswerving, whether it be Travellers, prisoners, or disadvantaged individuals from urban and rural backgrounds – issues not typically associated with right-wing politics. The Oireachtas committees on which I serve transparently reflect my priorities. The Joint Oireachtas Committee on Social Protection, Rural and Community Development and the Islands, as well as the Joint Committee dealing with Key Issues Affecting the Traveller Community, of which I am also the vice-chair, are among those that I serve diligently to uplift the less fortunate in our society.
Nevertheless, if my abovementioned moral values now symbolise the “right”, then I am content to bear the tag. – Yours Truly,
ÉAMON Ó CUÍV TD,
Fianna Fáil,
Leinster House,
Dublin 2.