Sir, – Irish humanists are offended by the use of the Bible in swearing-in ceremonies, (Siobhán Walls, April 9th). It is understandable that they feel left out, just as religious people feel left out when atheists declare themselves to be the holders of superior special insight into the truth behind the meaning of existence. The only honest thing to swear by is a question mark. Yours , etc,
EUGENE TANNAM,
Monalea Park,
Firhouse,
Dublin 24
Sir, – Sean Doocey (April 9th) believes that “modern society” might be better served if gardaí honoured the Constitution instead of the Bible. If Mr Doocey’s quest is to locate a neutral document, his choice seems misplaced.
After all, the preamble of the Constitution begins “In the name of the Most Holy Trinity, from Whom is all authority ...” and proceeds to acknowledge “our obligations to our Divine Lord Jesus Christ”. Strange but true. Yours, etc,
DR SEAN ALEXANDER
SMITH,
Aiken Village,
Sandyford,
Dublin 18