A chara, – Stephen Collins's claim that blanket Government handouts will only make inflation worse is spot on ("Irish politicians are making same old mistake on inflation", Opinion & Analysis, February 18th). It is the same short-sighted response which further prolonged the inflation of the 1970s and 1980s. Those who have to chose between being cold or hungry should be supported and those who are neither should thank their lucky stars. Many have said they don't need or want assistance and have asked that their share be given to those who do. The failure to set up a system which directs assistance to those who need it is inexcusable.
Opposition and Government are both responsible; one for encouraging and the other for acquiescing in a one size-fits-all response. Repeatedly doing the same thing but expecting a different result is just nuts. – Yours, etc,
JOHN CRONIN,
Dublin 6W.