Sir, – Your editorial refers to "US-style taxes" ("Auction politics alive and well", January 13th). The implication is that taxes in the US are low and public services consequently deficient.
I lived in several parts of the US for many years. In Ohio, for example, in addition to federal income tax, there was a state income tax and a sales tax. Another income tax was paid to the city. Further income taxes were paid to regional local government. On top of that a large property tax was paid to the the local municipality (recycling was included). Additional significant charges were also paid for water and sewerage services. These taxes in total could amount to more than 50 per cent of gross personal income. Local government services ( police, ambulance, roads, schools, planning) were mostly efficient, responsive and professional. – Yours, etc,
DECLAN WALSH,
Dublin 18.