Sir, – With regard to Bridie Redmond's letter (June 14th) about "TDs coming to London" to tell Irish people how to vote in the Brexit referendum: given the potential negative economic and social impact of a UK exit for Ireland, and also the worrying implications that this could have for the peace process in Northern Ireland, our TDs have a duty and a responsibility to inform those in the UK who care about Ireland about the consequences and dangers of a UK exit. Britain may be an island but the impact of an exit result would not only impact on people living in Britain but it would also affect those living in close proximity. It would be reckless for our TDs, or for anyone who has connections with those voting in the Brexit referendum, be they family, personal or business, not to let them know of the grave concerns the vast majority of Irish people living in Ireland have with the prospect of a UK exit.
As Ms Redmond has been living in London for more than 40 years, she may be indifferent to those concerns. Yes, she is quite right that she does have the democratic freedom of choice to put her X where she chooses. However, like all citizens exercising their franchise, she has a duty to make an informed choice. Our TDs, and the many other Irish people who have highlighted to Ireland the dangers of a UK exit, are involved in the process of helping people to make an informed decision.
She may accept or reject what they are saying, that is her democratic right, but we also have a right to make our views known. – Yours, etc,
DIARMAID Ó CORRBUÍ,
Ranelagh, Dublin 6.
Sir, – The leaders of the Remain side in the Brexit debate are accused of scaremongering and negativity. There is some justification for at least the latter charge, but is hard to deliver bad news – the consequences of leaving the EU – without sounding negative. It would help if instead they shifted focus to the benefits of staying in. Rather than “You’ll be X pounds worse off if you leave”, the message should be “You’ll X pounds better off if we stay”.
The British electorate, lulled by the positive tone, might not notice that it is really the same argument! – Yours, etc.,
MICHAEL DRURY,
Brussels.