Madam, - May I remind Maurice Ahern (July 2nd) that the booing of Bertie is part of the price he has to pay for a voracious appetite for photo opportunities, particularly at sporting events, and his desire to promote an image as a man of the people - which his track record on the health service would indicate he is not.
As far as Bertie's long hours are concerned, nobody forces politicians to put their names forward for election and if they can't stand the heat they should get out of the kitchen. - Yours, etc.,
PADDY WYNNE, Bayside Walk, Sutton, Dublin 13.
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Madam, - I think that the Taoiseach's brother is missing the point on the booing incidents. There is a lot of anger in the broader community regarding the lack of services for people with disabilities. The public are aware of this reality, particularly after the wonderful Special Olympic Games.
They simply do not like politicians jumping on the bandwagon and hence the reaction. I was at the opening ceremony in Croke Park and I too heard the booing. However, most people beside me did not boo, even though they cringed anytime a politician was mentioned. They did not want to embarrass or upset the athletes. Otherwise it would have been worse.
I would urge Cllr Ahern to look at the hurt caused to many families of adults and children with disabilities and ensure that we get rights-based disability legislation. Then we can all get on and enjoy our great sporting events. - Yours, etc.,
FINIAN McGRATH, TD, (Independent) Dáil Éireann, Baile Átha Cliath, 2.