Sir, - Regarding Budget 2000 and the resultant hysteria whipped up by hastily formed pressure groups which are fanning the flames of opportunism among a number of TDs, I feel a salutatory point is lost in the "debate".
Surely to bring children into the world is quite literally a lifestyle decision. The associated joys, benefits, difficulties and costs which arise as a consequence of such a decision are the ultimate responsibility of parents. I despair of a society and a political system which oversee large segments (perhaps the majority) of the workforce subsidising the lifestyle choices of more articulate (more time on their hands, perhaps) others.
Perhaps we should all stay at home, form pressure groups, besiege chat shows and sabre rattle our TDs and leave wealth creation to those unfortunate enough to choose a lifestyle which differs from our own. - Yours, etc.,
Maurice Fitzgerald, Weston Park, Lucan, Co Dublin.