Sir, - Since the Government decided to do away with water charges and substitute a tax to make good the loss of income. I have been meaning to write you in this matter. However, the brave comment by Mary Harney in this matter spurred me to get this letter done.
The Government decision to abolish water charges was the most abject example of political cowardice for a long time. When the present Government was being cobbled together, the Democratic Left, representing just two per cent of the voting public, received huge over representation in the Government, and have continued banging the table at Cabinet meetings ever since and getting what they want.
The average water charge works out at a little over a pound per week, which is a very modest sum for a plentiful supply of good water. The Government deserved all the hassle it got from members of the group water schemes. Congratulations to Mary Harney for having the courage to speak out. I am not one of her party followers, but I wish some other politicians had her courage. - Yours, etc.,
Blarney,
Co Cork.