Sir, – In the context of the discussions relating to the system of appointments to the boards of State bodies and public institutions, would it be too much to expect that eventual candidates might actually exhibit certain basic qualities? These might include experience related to the particular sector and, especially, evidence of some real sense of vision for the future of the particular institution itself and its contribution to the public good. Would independence of thought be just too much to suggest as a further desirable quality? – Yours, etc,
GERARD WILKINSON,
Menaggio,
Italy.
Sir, – The level of criticism that accompanies any decision taken by anyone in authority is going to lead to a situation where those capable of adding value in the public service will be unwilling to take up the challenge because the level of scrutiny taking place has gone too far. – Yours, etc,
BRIAN POWER,
Dublin 2.
A chara, – In relation to the truth as told in yesterday’s “Dáil Sketch”, all I can say is, thank God for Miriam Lord! – Is mise,
PÁDRAIG Ó CÍOBHÁIN,
Bearna,
Co Galway.
Sir, – I note with some amusement the flurry of outrage in your letters page concerning “McNulty-Gate”. I suspect the majority of those who felt strongly enough to write to your paper have rarely if ever been to the Irish Museum of Modern Art, and in the ordinary course of events, pay no attention whatever to the Seanad. A political stroke? Certainly. But surely not one that merits quite this level of hysteria. – Yours, etc,
CONOR O’MAHONY,
Sandymount, Dublin 4.
Sir, – I read with growing amusement the excuses, reasons and explanations of politicians (current and possibly future) for why they do what they do. We are awash with worthy, well-qualified and dedicated people who have risen without a trace, and having done so, either get elected, having demonstrated a “track record” and a tireless capacity for hard work, or hang about in various jobs, appointments, committees and boards, or anywhere that will turn a decent euro, which they claim never to be concerned about, until they can be re-elected, demonstrating an enhanced track record and an even more tireless capacity, to support their candidacy. Maybe they are worthy of these appointments, but perhaps on the basis of an “internship” or “JobBridge” basis until they demonstrate real ability for the job. – Yours, etc,
PAT QUINN,
Inchicore, Dublin 8.
Sir, – Witnessing Simon Harris – a young, intelligent and energetic politician – getting wheeled out to defend the indefensible this week was particularly dispiriting. – Yours, etc,
DECLAN KENNY,
Leixlip,
Co Kildare.
Sir, – Fintan O'Toole ("Does appointment of McNulty to board of Imma meet seven principles of public office?", Opinion & Analysis, September 30th) outlined seven principles of public life set out by the UK Committee on Standards in Public Life and argued that these principles could be usefully adopted by the Government. Before the last general election Enda Kenny promised a report card on his Ministers. Needless to say, this was not done. It would be interesting to see how the Government would perform when measured under the principles Mr O'Toole has outlined. – Yours, etc,
BRIAN ROSS ,
Bray,
Co Wicklow.
Sir, – If it quacks like a duck and looks like a duck, then it’s a duck, they say. In this case, however, there was a quack, but the creature looked like it had a stiff neck, a small head very quick to use a bill, a body covered in dour plumage, two webbed feet that work independently of each other and a fondness for water. It’s internal structures are hidden. I hope this draws a line under the matter. – Yours, etc,
CONAN DOYLE,
Pococke Lower,
Kilkenny.