Mobile Phone Masts

Sir, - As a mobile phone user and business man, as well as a objector to the erection of masts in many historic rural towns, …

Sir, - As a mobile phone user and business man, as well as a objector to the erection of masts in many historic rural towns, including our own, I take great exception to the remarks by ESAT Digifone spokespersons to the effect that objectors are against employment or progress.

Progress is the development of our environment in a sensitive manner, with thought for the future and respect for the past. The current stonewalling of valid arguments of honest citizens of this country, who are trying to protect the integrity of community life, will only lead to further polarisation of this conflict. Yes, we do want more masts, but in suitable locations. If a derogation of planning law is allowed as requested by the Garda commisioner, citizens will again be denied their most basic, fundamental human right which is open government and a opportunity to influence developments in one's living environment.

If the Minister for Justice allows this to happen, the Government will reap a bitter harvest in next year's local elections. - Yours, etc., Klaas Huizenga,

Clogheen, Co Tipperary.