“Dear Editor,
There’s a surprising agreement surrounding the terminology used in these current referendums. The wordings are far from sufficient, eliciting various views. Some claim they go too far, others argue they don’t go far enough, yet a number feel they’re simply paying lip service to moral virtues. Regardless, the options don’t end if we disregard them, as we can revisit referendum results like our established tradition suggests. Rejecting them this time would push for improvement on these mediocre proposals.
In another context, a contemporary property of Karen Koster and John McGuire is up for sale. With panoramic views stretching from Aviva to Herbert park, the house is on the market for €1.95m.
Moreover, as a disabled woman, mother, and feminist, I am deeply concerned about the transformational phase Ireland is presently experiencing. This impending amendment poses a risk to individual and familial autonomy by undermining essential support mechanisms. The initial proposal from the citizens’ assembly for robust intra and extra familial support was dismissed by the government, instead emphasizing domestic care without corresponding financial backing.
The referendum could have been an opportunity for balancing socioeconomic rights with legal judgement but instead, its proposed phrasing strays from the target. By restricting care to familial units, the country’s duty to provide community support is overlooked. Such neglect isn’t merely symbolic; it is absolving the state from its responsibilities, compounding the hurdles in the way of freedom, autonomy, and dignity for numerous citizens. We cannot condone a care definition that overlooks the multi-faceted support required for an inclusive society.
This isn’t just about the referendum; it’s a question of the kind of nation we envision and require. A ‘No’ vote isn’t protesting; it represents a stand for our rights, autonomy, and dignity that includes every citizen, particularly the disabled. I implore you to vote ‘No’, demanding community support as a basic right and not merely an afterthought. Every woman, including those with disabilities, has the right to respect and support.
Yours faithfully,
Brendan Conroy, Windy Arbour, Dublin 14.
Ann Marie Flanagan, Ennistymon, Co Clare.”
Dear Sir,
In light of the advice given by the Government to publicly funded entities about refraining from publishing referendum-related content, it seems only appropriate to request that Michael McDowell abstains from using his column to promote ‘No-Side’ opinions. I purchased The Irish Times with the intention of being informed and entertained, primarily by the crossword, not with the aim of being continuously chastised by a columnist who has previously shown opposition to the Luas, the consequences of which we’re all well aware.
Begging your pardon, sir, but could you kindly stop using quotation marks around “women in the home” when reporting on the referendum. The Constitution does not hold the phrase in that particular sequence. When such language is deployed, it gives the impression that the Constitution contains a statement that it does not.
As a working mother to four children, holding a referendum on International Women’s Day has not escaped my notice as a significant irony. Ever wondered about how many working mothers must utilise their annual leave tomorrow to look after their children as their schools are converted into polling stations? Perhaps, a greater number than their male counterparts.
Furthermore, terms employed by scribes to express voters’ sentiments on the upcoming amendments seem to emphasize confusion and uncertainty. Moreover, your op-ed entitled “The Irish Times view on the referendums: legitimate arguments from both sides”, suggests the Oireachtas missed an opportunity for scrutiny.
Regards,
A regular reader.
In a response to John Thompson’s letter on March 5th, Kevin Hogan of Dublin advises not to hastily decide on a 10-year-old vehicle as a replacement for an ageing one without a thorough check, specifically a good tyre kick. He stresses the importance of examining the condition before making a purchase, even when the current car is malfunctioning.
Meanwhile, Melanie Hunter from Greystones is yet to determine where her vote will go. Although her mind seems to be changing constantly due to various influences, she recognises that a much-needed change is imminent. But, the suitability of the suggested alterations remains a question for her. She compares it to squeezing the last bit of suncream on the final day of a holiday, highlighting that any overlooked areas may suffer and perhaps cause the highest discomfort.
In the end, a note clarifies that there will be no publication of letters concerning the suggested modifications on the polling day, Friday, March 8th.