Sir, - I've noted an increasing number of letters in this publication raising the issue of racism and its inherent dangers. Might I suggest that the volume of such letters highlights a growing frustration at the lack of moral leadership? For leadership to be effective, courage is essential, but more importantly courage without reward.
Irish society deserves its new-found wealth but wealth brings more responsibility not less; yet, I fear, our politicians see no reward in confronting this issue.
There is one person ideally placed to stand above the materialism of party politics and that is the President; one might suggest her position demands it. I acknowledge her abhorrence of racism and that she has done much to oppose it.
She has one important avenue left open to her. The Constitution states that the President can speak directly to the nation on any matter of national importance. Surely racism deserves such attention.
With respect might I suggest to President McAleese that the Council of State address this issue with a view to a Presidential address. Prior to this address schools should be asked to devote time to an educational module on the subject. President McAleese knows the power of symbolism. With this in mind I quote Franz Kafka: "Words can't defeat evil but they can help us cope better with it." - Yours, etc.,
Terry Brophy, Elm Mount Avenue, Beaumont, Dublin 9.