A chara, - It is encouraging to note that freedom of expression has not been entirely subdued by the stultifying orthodoxy of political correctness. At long last one journalist has had the courage to write honestly and unequivocally on the subject of illegal immigration. Kevin Myers (Irishman's Diary, October 22nd) articulates a long overdue exposé of the important issues which attend the inertia which now passes for national policy on illegal immigration.
Racism in the true sense of the word is a very ugly thing and very much to be avoided, but it is much more likely to arise in the future as a consequence of irresponsible policies now.
A policy of uncontrolled immigration into this country could have very serious consequences for everyone, not only for those of us who aspire to the ideal of a Gaelic united Ireland.
Kevin Myers is not exaggerating or unrealistic when he says: "It is imbecilic to think that the number of foreigners pouring into this country will not soon become a major source of social unrest." The term "social unrest" may indeed prove a euphemism for the social conflict and strife which may result from the present permissive situation. It is not difficult to imagine large-scale social conflict in a situation where a society is polarised between a native population of "haves" and a highly visible hostile, and resentful minority of "have-nots".
In this country we have a small native population with a fragile culture long beleaguered by destructive Anglo-American influence, the result of geographical and linguistic factors. Recent prosperity has brought with it the prospect of a cultural resurrection. In this context it is encouraging to note the flowering of the gaelscoil movement.
It would not be difficult, however, to imagine a time, not far off, when a new and emboldened minority could demand the abandonment of all public expression of our Gaelic and Christian tradition in the interests of "inclusiveness".
We have already witnessed the revisionist questioning of Irish identity itself by those who would evacuate the term of all meaning for the purpose of "inclusiveness". Would it be too pessimistic to imagine in this context a future demand to discontinue the teaching of the Irish language and Irish history as being divisive and to legislate accordingly?
What kind of country do we want for future generations? Those of us who have young families and who would therefore have a valid vested interest in the future of the country must be heard. - Is mise,
F.G. O'FAOLAIN,
Baile an Teampaill,
Beal Átha na Muice,
Co Mhuigheo.