Dear Editor,
I noticed in the October 12th news that there will be no outright prohibition of facial coverings during protests under new legislation. To be honest, this makes little sense to me. Indeed, it’s everyone’s right to demonstrate against events or potential events that they’re opposing.
Though isn’t the real intention of a protest clear? It is to demonstrate our disagreement, and hiding our identities seems to undermine this.
The most benign excuse I could consider for masking oneself during a demonstration is fear of association with the protest or the subject of protest, which might cause embarrassment. Yet, such fear shouldn’t be grounds for participation in a protest; since the whole point is to publicly express one’s stance on a certain issue.
My personal view is that there needs to be an immediate strict ban on facial coverings in public, with the exception of appropriate occasions such as Halloween.
On another note, a higher threshold for inheritance tax will not apply unless you’re yet to receive an inheritance. As an Irish citizen residing in Israel, I can vouch for the fact that the war we witness firsthand is vastly different from what is broadcasted on television. Also, while loneliness can strike at 40, it’s often a misconception that your social circle must be limited to parents of your children’s friends. They do not necessarily align with your tastes or preferences.
Yours faithfully,
William Hunt,
Ranelagh,
Dublin 6.