Madam, - If the Irish people allow the Government to curtail the Freedom of Information Act, they are as craven and stupid as the politicians believe.
Those who are endeavouring to emasculate the Act are the enemies of democracy, justice and freedom and are unfit for public office. - Yours, etc.,
DON HEENAN, Williamstown, Co Carlow.
Madam, - I could not agree more with Joe Guerin's call (March 13th) for mass protest against the proposed changes to the Freedom of Information Act. However, I would like to add that perhaps the Civil and Public Service Union might now also give leadership in taking action against this attack on openness in Irish democracy.
And where is the leadership from other trade unions on the matter? The neutering of the FOI is a blindfolding of the citizens of this State by the very people elected to defend against such attacks. As a low-paid, private sector work I have neither the time nor the money to trawl for the truth behind Government decisions affecting my life. I have to rely on the media and others.
Are we going to let these amendments just happen with nothing but letters to the press and consultations with those who are intent on curtailment anyway? Let's have a day of action for the Irish people. Let our leaders in unions and Opposition show leadership now. - Yours, etc.,
CAOIMHIN DE BHAILIS, Roman Street, Cork.
Madam, - Oh, to be cursed with a good memory! I would have more respect for some of those who are now exercised about restrictions to the Freedom of Information Act had they not, for years, been such enthusiastic supporters of the gagging of Sinn Féin via Section 31 of the Broadcasting Act. - Yours, etc.,
M. MAGILL, Howth, Co Dublin.