Democratic Principles

Sir, - The chief executive of Midlands Radio 3, Mr Joe Yerkes, is quoted (The Irish Times, March 10th) as expressing concern …

Sir, - The chief executive of Midlands Radio 3, Mr Joe Yerkes, is quoted (The Irish Times, March 10th) as expressing concern that developments in the independent radio sector pose a threat to democracy. His concern relates to the emergence of digital transmission networks.

Is it too much to hope that this concern for democracy will lead to Mr Yerkes and many of his colleagues in the sector embracing the democratic principle that workers have the right to collective trade union representation - even in local radio. - Yours etc.,

Eoin Ronayne, Irish Secretary, National Union of Journalists, Liberty Hall, Dublin 1.