Madam, - The people of Leitrim are upset that their little county is being split in two for the purpose of general elections. This of course greatly reduces the chances of a Leitrim person being returned to the Dáil or Seanad. Apparently this is a disadvantage, although I'm not so sure.
In any event, Dáil Éireann is the national parliament and the county origins of its members should be irrelevant. We should elect politicians on their abilities, regardless as to whether they're Dubs, Deise or Dingle men.
In addition, major population shifts across the country will necessitate constant re-jigging of constituency boundaries. Part of Meath West could wind up in Westmeath, or part of Kerry North in Limerick West, creating further confusion and complication. Imagine trying to take a seat from Mayo in order to give it to Dublin North. The bellowing of disgruntled Mayomen would be of a bitterness not heard since the Civil War.
But all this confusion and potential anger could be eradicated. Now is the time to abolish our antiquated constituencies and adopt a list system like that in some European countries. This would prioritise policy above county allegiance
We could then confine our flag-waving micro-patriotism to Croke Park - and keep it out of Dáil Éireann. - Yours etc,
FINTAN TUOHY, Cloon, Castleconnell, Co Limerick.