Madam, - Few state agencies have so positively influenced Irish life as the Equality Authority under its charismatic chief executive Niall Crowley.
Now that the Minister for Justice, Equality and Law Reform has cut its budget to such an extent that the chief executive had no option but to resign, perhaps the Minister should consider another cut: dropping the word "Equality" from the title of his ministerial portfolio. - Yours, etc,
RIAN COULTER,
Rose Hill Court,
Kilkenny.
Madam, - At a time when so many democracies have enthusiastically welcomed the election of the US President-elect Barak Obama because of his vision of change for freedom, equality and engaged citizenry, Ireland's own vision of freedom and equality is deeply damaged by the Government's decision to virtually halve the budget of the Equality Authority.
At a time when our Taoiseach is negotiating with European leaders to maintain Ireland's place at the heart of Europe, his Government is reducing its commitment to equality, which stands at the heart of the European project.
As an Irish champion of equality, Niall Crowley's resignation is a symbol of just how out of step the Irish Government now is with the positive change happening in other parts of our world. - Yours, etc ,
KATHERINE ZAPPONE,
ANN LOUISE GILLIGAN,
Centre for Progressive Change,
Brittas,
Co Dublin.
Madam, - The resignation of Niall Crowley as chief executive of the Equality Authority marks a dangerous point in the Government's lack of commitment to equality issues in Ireland.
Mr Crowley's leadership and dedication to equality issues was unsurpassed and due to his commitment Ireland benefited greatly.
Under his direction the Equality Authority protected and promoted the rights of many who are discriminated against - including the lesbian and gay community. His departure now puts a question mark over the future rights of lesbians and gay men.
Ireland's reputation as a leader in human rights is seriously at risk as the tide turns and the Government backtracks on its commitment to equality in Ireland. I urge the Government to seriously reconsider its position and restate its commitment to full equality in Ireland. - Yours, etc,
MONINNE GRIFFITH,
MarriagEquality,
Dublin 2.