Sir, - It is refreshing to hear a bit of straight talking from politicians at long last. At the launch of the Farm Assist scheme, Mr Joe Walsh, Minister for Agriculture, confirmed that this is a long term scheme. He stated that there was a hard core of farmers who would need assistance such as this so that they may live on in their farms with dignity.
What dignity is there attached to living when you must always be dependent on government handouts? Surely dignity can only be attained and maintained when you believe you have your independence and are earning your living by the sweat of your brow?
Is it now accepted that there is no future for our small farmers? What is the purpose in having a Government agency such as Teagasc if we are giving up on the small farmers? Are our small traders and cottage industries now going to be treated in the same manner? Is this the beginning of the end for our small rural communities?
The time has now come for all of us to stand up and demand that all our people be treated with respect and dignity. If Ireland is to take its place among the respected nations of the world it must be seen to be a caring community where the dignity and pride of the small person is just as important as the power and riches of the chosen few. - Yours, etc. Neily Lehane, PRO, Conserve Our Rural Post Offices,
Mallow, Co Cork.