Sir, – As budget day came to a close, it was encouraging to note that the Taoiseach and the leader of Fianna Fáil were in contact with regard to the possible extension of the confidence and supply agreement.
It took some 70 days to come up with the now “expired” agreement, a luxury that cannot be extended to negotiations on its extension. Nor should there be any tolerance for spin in the detailed review that the leader of Fianna Fáil, in particular, seems to be indicating. Neither do I want any menacing talk of a Christmas general election.
What I wish to hear, after talks have concluded behind closed doors, is that the agreement has been extended until at least this time next year.
I will then continue to appreciate living in a country that has a functioning government, unlike Northern Ireland, and that the Government is strong in its harmony, integrity and focus, unlike that of the UK, as Hurricane Brexit is about to make landfall. – Yours, etc,
MICHAEL GANNON,
Kilkenny.
Sir, – When one wakes up and reads the online headline “Taoiseach says confidence and supply deal can be done by Halloween break” (News, October 10th), one can only wonder will it be a trick or treat. – Yours, etc,
BRIAN CULLEN,
Rathfarnham,
Dublin 16.