Madam, - Revolutionary policies are needed to tackle drug-dealing, money-laundering, identity theft and fraud. In my view, the solution to these criminal operations is the elimination of an ancient technology we unconsciously take for granted: cash.
Its replacement would be an identity card which represents a cash account and uses biometric authorisation (fingerprints) to ensure that payments in a shop are genuine.
This revolutionary measure might not eliminate gangland crime, but it will make it more difficult for gangs to do business. If any government truly believes in transforming Ireland into a knowledge and information society, the virtual elimination of cash to curb criminal operations, to increase security in day-to-day business transactions and to stamp out political financial corruption is essential. - Yours, etc,
MARK KING, Cloyne Road, Dublin 12.