Madam, - I read Breda O'Brien's column of January 23rd, defending the right of young Muslim women to wear headscarves in a non-discriminatory and secular situation, with irritation bordering on apoplexy.
Following Ms O'Brien's logic - if that phrase isn't an oxymoron - should we not welcome female circumcision? Like headscarves, female genital mutilation is not prescribed by the Koran, but it has a long tradition in certain cultures. And, as with headscarves, it poses no threat to society and affects only the young woman involved. Indeed, Ms O'Brien might be happy to know that it definitely encourages chastity among women of all ages.
I agree (gritting teeth) with Ms O'Brien that there has been a failure - and not only in France - to integrate Muslims into non-Muslim societies. Nevertheless, it remains a two-way transaction.
Perhaps it's time we all acknowledged that the sight of women's uncovered head hair is neither an occasion of sin nor an excuse for unbridled lust! - Yours, etc.,
GLORIA HAMILTON, National Chair, Labour Women, Dublin 2.