Sir, - The daily disclosures of the corruption and ambivalence prevalent in Irish society down the years are not only appalling, but a source of deep anger.
I spent the 1960s in London as an emigrant, returning to Ireland in 1970, and subsequently emigrating again in 1989. This time I will not return. Having been a captive PAYE tax-payer during this period I am extremely angry when I read about the massive tax avoidance that appears to have taken place by those who were supposed to be role models.
These current scandals are also doing serious damage to Ireland's image abroad as a place to do business, to invest in. The location lacks integrity.
Through the years, Irish emigrants have consistently supported kinfolk at home, local communities, the peace process, and investment. I believe it is now time for Irish emigrants worldwide to come together to demand reform, on both sides of the border, before we put one more penny into our homeland.
There must be accountability. There must be reform. There must be justice. - Yours, etc.,
Joe Duffy, Lawrenceville, Ga 30044, USA.