Sir, – Olivia O’Leary (Opinion, February 14th) gave the best possible analysis of the parish pump politics with which we are afflicted in this State. However, all the blame must not be laid on the politicians, as the old adage has it; in a democracy we get the politicians we deserve. As anyone who has canvassed is well aware, the most frequent question is: what can you do for me?
With the new council set-up we have a good opportunity to modernise TDs to deal with national and international affairs: if there’s not enough to keep them busy, reduce their numbers. The parish pump would then be left to councils and the local property tax a council tax applicable to all householders.
Meanwhile a citizens advice bureau should be set up in each town to advise people of their rights. – Yours, etc,
JAMES MORAN,
Knockanure,
Bunclody, Co Wexford.