Sir, – Ray Kinsella argues that Greece would have been better to exit the euro (Opinion & Analysis, July 16th). Of course the decision by the EU to impose greater austerity on Greece and its people is political and not economic. Political in that there are those who require the unity of the EU and the euro zone at any cost! Had Greece opted for its own devalued currency, its sales of olive oil, wine, ships, etc, would have increased. Likewise tourism, its largest industry, would have soared and unemployment would have decreased.
The legal issue remains – and it is pertinent to the Republic – can a country improve its economy by exiting the euro but continue as a member of the European Union? – Yours, etc,
Lord KILCLOONEY,
(Former MEP),
Armagh.
Sir, – The politicians and media commentators who accuse the Government of adopting a harsh stance in relation to the Greek crisis and of being primarily concerned with its own domestic political agenda, would, no doubt, assert that they themselves are inspired by the purest of motives, the plight of the Greek people. So no domestic political agenda on their part? – Yours, etc,
MÁIRE WHITE,
Kinlough,
Co Leitrim.
Sir, – I wonder how long it will take for us in Ireland to realise we are only one international financial crisis away from being the next Greece and then we will see the true faces of our European “friends”. I think it is time to reconsider our place in this Europe or lose our very soul trying to hold a morally bankrupt institution together. – Yours, etc,
FRANK BEADLE ,
South Circular Road,
Dublin 8.
Sir, – I am old enough to remember the difference that EEC/EU membership made to Ireland and to appreciate fully what we and all the member states stand to lose. If we cannot rebuild trust and solidarity, the future is bleak. – Yours, etc,
UNA O’DWYER,
Donnybrook,
Dublin 4.