Madam, – I have no doubt that Siobhain O’Connell (April 1st) echoes the feelings of all families in her situation. Her frustration is shared by everyone – young and old. My husband and I are pensioners, and have watched with horror as the country of which we were so proud and which we loved so much has sunk into the mire, all because of the greed of bankers and their ilk. Why should these people not be named and shamed? They could take their place in the Gallery of Odium beside the “gentlemen” from Anglo Irish. Since it was our money they were dissipating we deserve to know who they are. – Yours, etc,
Madam, – I was moved by Siobhain O’Connell’s letter (April 1st). Surely it is only fair that those who must leave the country to make a living should at least retain their right to vote?
They and their families have experienced the sharpest realities of Government polities, after all. A number of people have written in support of voting rights for Irish citizens living abroad. I wonder if we would find ourselves in our present position if they had enjoyed those rights all along?
As a dual Irish and US citizen, I am privileged to vote in certain elections in each country. Although resident in Ireland, I am also liable for US tax, should I make a great deal of money. This seems fair, as I still enjoy the rights of US citizenship. Most Americans living abroad never have to pay tax to the US, as the threshold for earnings is high.
Irish citizens should be allowed to vote in their absence; (perhaps those residing in the EU should be allowed to do so without further tax liabilities). I am sure – I would hope – that those who are enormously successful further afield, who value their ties to their birth-country, would be willing to pay a reasonable tax to Ireland. Their votes would also be greatly valued. – Yours, etc,