Sir, - I was relieved to read the results of the recent MRBI poll on Irish membership of the PfP, which showed that a very considerable majority of the electorate believes, as I do, that there should be a referendum on the matter. I was dismayed to see the Government response to the poll result.
I believe that we urgently need a national discussion, which fully explores our role and responsibilities for defence in Europe. This discussion should not be limited only to the two options currently in front of us: join PfP or stay as we are.
I believe we should identify our role and responsibilities and our consequent national policy on Defence in Europe and, in light of that, decide how best to pursue this policy, considering all options, whether through PfP, the UN or other.
I believe strongly that the Government should reconsider the decision to join PfP without a referendum, listen to and hear the voice of the electorate and address both the policy and the mechanism in the national discussion and subsequent decision. - Yours, etc.,
Prof Maire F. Mulcahy, Ph.D. (Prof.) Renvyle, Wilton Avenue, Cork.