Madam, – Every year much nonsense is written about our politicians leaving the country for St Patrick’s Day. Martin Ford (March 8th) continues this fine tradition. Strangely, the world opens its doors to the Irish on St Patrick’s Day. Much as I dislike our current leaders, I think they handle this situation correctly. It would be negligent on their part not to take the opportunity presented to promote Ireland.
Additionally, as must be obvious to anyone who has taken a long-haul flight, there is very little pleasure in going on a “junket” half way around the world for a day or two. The critics might have a case if Brian Cowen’s travel plans included a week’s study of sunshine, beaches and pool-side cocktails. – Yours, etc,
Madam, – TG Molyneux’s letter (March 6th) raises some interesting questions regarding the mass exodus of Government Ministers on St Patrick’s Day. However, there’s little point in criticising the Taoiseach’s annual visit to Washington. It’s a great opportunity to turn the White House’s attention to Ireland, even if it comes across on TV as more of a photo opportunity than anything else. I’m sure serious business is done on Capitol Hill later in the day. And the fact that Chicago turns its river green has not gone unnoticed by President Obama.
But why is Wales always neglected? There is strong evidence to believe that St Patrick was a Welshman (his birth name was Maewyn Succat). Would it not be possible for a Minister of State to visit Cardiff, to do the necessary? We might even get a return visit by the First Minister on St David’s Day! – Yours, etc,
Madam, – I am infuriated to see the number of politicians going globetrotting for St Patrick’s Day celebrations. It is outrageous for the Taoiseach to be allowed take 21 Ministers and Ministers of State (and the Attorney General), while taxpayers are being crucified for political failure and reckless spending that has devastated our country’s economy.
The Taoiseach presents a costly bowl of Shamrock to the American President that’s never worn. Meanwhile, tens of thousands of young people are being forced to leave this country, owing to the shambolic situation we have been plummeted into.
It’s farcical for a Government to tell us that these junkets are a potential job-creating exercise, as it cannot hold onto existing jobs at home. – Yours, etc,