Sir, – The reporting by the so-called paper of record of the recent first “abortion” under new legislation (Front page, August 23rd) is a superb example of the groupthink and ideological dumbing down evoked by John Waters (Opinion) in the same issue. This plagues any real discussion of complex problems in an honest and open manner. The tragic loss of these twin babies was inevitable and the intervention performed entirely compliant with the ethical guidelines of the Irish Medical Council. To suggest otherwise is an insult to the truth. – Yours, etc,
Dr PAUL MacMULLAN,
Castleknock Manor,
Dublin 15.
Sir, – I agree fully with the clinical director of Holles Street hospital and sympathise with his anger on Morning Ireland (August 23rd). Revealing private details of a patient’s treatment in order to sell a story is profoundly immoral and violates her constitutional right to privacy. Does the media understand that behind headlines is a real human being, particularly in this case where the person has lost her twin children? Is this appropriate and newsworthy material for publication?
The medical process and choice of treatment was the right one, and finally we have legal clarity on the appropriate treatment of expectant mothers in perilous circumstances.
Why can’t the media wait until the HSE reports on hospital procedures as required by the recent legislation? What is the need and rush to report and intrude on people’s private affairs so you can spin off a story?
Journalism at its very worst and unworthy of The Irish Times! – Yours,etc,
NEIL O’BRIEN,
Tulla, Co Clare.