BRENDAN OGLE,
Sir, - For four days of the week I look forward with eager anticipation to reading Kevin Myers's Irishman's Diary. Although I disagree with many of his opinions, I find his writing brilliantly entertaining, enlightened and often hilarious. On the days that Mr Myers doesn't write, I seldom find the column so absorbing.
Not so on Monday, September 16th. Joe Humphreys's description of the media conspiracy against teachers in general, and ASTI members in particular, was much needed and long overdue. For too long journalists have been happy to travel with the powerful mandarins of Government and ICTU on the good ship partnership and stick a good size 10 into ASTI whenever the mood took them. Apparently not a morsel of thought has been expended on how the sense of betrayal and bitterness many ASTI members now feel as a result of their harsh treatment and public vilification may ultimately affect the long-term education of our children and the standards in our schools.
At last a journalist who is prepared to say "Enough!" raises his head above the parapet. At last some insight, reflection and respect for the people who rear our children while we're otherwise engaged. At last some balance. Thank you, Joe Humphreys. Decent journalism hits back at last. - Yours, etc.,
BRENDAN OGLE,
(Former ILDA Secretary),
Cornamaddy,
Athlone,
Co Westmeath.