Madam, - Coilin Ó hAiseadha (October 9th) extols what he terms "the fundamental principle that most clearly distinguishes free, democratic countries such as the United States and Ireland from countries such as Syria".
So, is freedom of speech to be permitted to those who demand the death of non-Muslims and the extermination of a member-state of the UN? Does Mr Ó hAiseadha know that the television station for which Ibrahim al Mussawi works - al Manar - is used to recruit suicide bombers, raise money for terrorist operations, and incite violent attacks? Does he approve of broadcasting a variety of anti-Western and anti-Semitic programmes aimed at children, including some calling on young people to become martyrs?
Does he know that EU Commissioner Viviane Reding, responsible for information society and the media, said that al Manar violated European provisions prohibiting "any incitement to hatred on grounds of race, sex, religion or nationality in broadcasts"? Does Mr hAiseadha want the freedom to shout "Fire!" in a crowded theatre? - Yours, etc,
DAVID SOWBY, Knocksinna Crescent, Dublin 18.