Madam, - I see that the Government "think tank", in its attempt to discover why young people are prone to the evils of drink and drugs, has reached the earth shattering conclusion that more recreational facilities should be provided for them, such as youth clubs.
As somebody who - in my London youth - experienced a world class youth club system, allied to the London Federation of Youth Clubs, I have, since my arrival in Ireland, been shouting the conclusions of the think- tank from the rooftops. I have also written letters to the papers and was even interviewed about the said subject on RTÉ radio - where, let it be said, the interviewer kept contradicting my support for youth clubs, with inane comments such as: "Isn't it the responsibility of the parents to provide facilities?"
My own youth club had a gymnasium, a theatre, photo developing room, discos, live bands, folk groups, a house in the Kent countryside, changing rooms, a canteen, camping holidays, a multitude of sports, etc.
Maybe this think tank, armed with sociology degrees as well as politicians' pets, might like to contact me for some simple advice. - Yours, etc,
VICTOR FELDMAN, Merchants Road, East Wall, Dublin 3.