MICHAEL KENNEFICK,
A chara, - With all the Celtic Tiger guff, unemployment levels down, emigration reduced to a trickle, increasing prosperity all so welcome, unfortunately we continue to hear coarseness, vulgarity and obscenity in the use of language by too many of our compatriots. This situation was bad enough when I emigrated in 1980, but since my return to Ireland in 2000, it seems to me that it has worsened dramatically (to my ears).
Of course, there is no such thing as a completely pure, clean language. All languages have their swear words and obscenities. But the least we could do is try to reduce the output to a more moderate level.
The use of vulgar, obscene language seems to run throughout society as common acceptable currency (including third-level students, the so-called professional classes, well-known public figures, male and female). Enough is enough!
In response, I have decided to make a stand by banning such language in my own house. I appeal for your support. You've heard of nuclear-free zones. That gave me the idea for making my house into a "verbal-pollution-free zone". Anyone entering my house is alerted to the notice in the porch banning foul language. - Is mise,
MICHAEL KENNEFICK, College Road, Cork.