Sir, - The brutal murder of Veronica Guerin has rightly inflamed much anger and outrage amongst both our political leaders and the public at large. This outrage cannot be allowed to wither into inactivity in the weeks and months ahead. The events of this week, and indeed the murder of Garda McCabe in Adare, raise the most fundamental questions about who controls our democracy. Are these "untouchables" to be allowed to continue to carry on their activities with impunity?
Will the killers of Veronica Guerin ever be brought to justice? It is imperative that these issues are addressed by the legislators now and not after a Dail debate in mid July. The powerlessness of the Gardai to gain the upper hand in the battle against these thugs must be eliminated once and for all.
We, the electorate, also have an important role to play in this process. Any political party, whether in government or opposition, that fails to commit to a radical overhaul of the Irish criminal justice system should be treated with the contempt they deserve at the next general election. The actions and attitudes that will shape our society in the aftermath of this awful event are too important to be left to politicians. We all have a responsibility to ensure that Veronica Guerin did not die in vain. - Yours, etc.,
Leopardstown Gardens,
Blackrock,
Co Dublin.