Madam, - I agree with Fintan O'Toole about the neutering of the Freedom of Information Act: it is a disgrace. But I wish that journalists in both the press and broadcast media would do more than just complain about it. Why do they not follow the farmers' example and take to the streets in a day of mass protest? Why not engage in industrial action, such as refusing to give Ministers coverage? With such action people would see that journalists were really serious in their opposition to the proposed changes to the Act. - Yours, etc.,
JOE GUERIN,
Mallow,
Co Cork.
Madam, - In the past couple of weeks I have seen the British prime minister, Tony Blair, facing studio audiences on BBC, MTV and ITV to argue his case for war on Iraq. These audiences were composed of ordinary people ranging from fervent pacifists to unconvinced sceptics.
There were no spin-doctors, no prepared scripts and speeches, no planted party followers, no photogenic, articulate press officers: just Mr Blair on his own with a moderator and the audience.
Some of the participants were very emotional and posed very difficult questions, yet Mr Blair dealt with them in the most honest, factual and compassionate manner possible. There was no waffle, prevarication or sitting on the fence. You clearly understood all of his answers.
Over the years I have seen Mr Blair sit in front of many other audiences, stand before the media and sit before parliamentary committees to answer challenging and insightful questions on a variety of topics.
Whatever your opinion of him, here is an elected leader who is not only prepared to risk his entire career and historical legacy but is also willing to submit himself to public humiliation by standing before a hostile audience to justify and explain his position. You cannot but admire the bravery of a leader willing to do that. You cannot but admire his dedication to democracy, transparency, accountability and the public's right to know and question their leader's motives.
Contrast Mr Blair's behaviour with that of Mr Ahern. Can you ever imagine a day when Mr Ahern will voluntarily submit himself to the same level of scrutiny over his policies? Can you ever imagine a day when he will be able to explain in clear plain English his position on anything of substance and the reasoning behind that position? The controversies over the recent changes in Standing Orders and the Freedom of Information Act, which allow Mr Ahern to shirk his responsibilities, lead me to believe that this day lies in the realm of imagination along with the tooth fairy and leprechauns. - Yours, etc.,
JASON FITZHARRIS,
Carlow.
Madam, - I am supportive of politicians in general, as they have to face election, whereas members of the media do not.
Nevertheless, I feel the public should have access to several official records.
The proposed fee of €20 excludes the public but means nothing to media outlets which have advertising and other income.
The Act should apply equally to all. - Yours, etc.,
DONAL O'DRISCOLL,
Dargle Road,
Blackrock,
Co Dublin.