Madam, - I am shocked at the letter from Terence Flanagan TD on problem teachers (October 8th). If this is the level of analysis that we can expect from Fine Gael's "new bloods", then we have no alternative government.
The role of a school principal is to manage the school. A key element of management is to manage your people. Removing problem staff is essential for the welfare of pupils, the morale of other staff members and everyone involved in a school.
I might have some respect for Mr Flanagan's position if he had outlined an alternative or suggested safeguards for the new system. However, he simply rubbished the Minister's policy without saying what he and his party would do.
We could take this as "cute politics", but I rather think that it is "say nothing and don't upset any vested interests" politics.. We have enough of that in Ireland. - Yours, etc,
CONOR McWADE, Sandymount, Dublin 4.