Madam, - Carl O'Brien's article "New system aims to avoid welfare poverty trap" is the most intelligent, balanced and accurate piece I have read on the topic of lone parenthood in many years (The Irish Times, January 4th).
I am a lone parent who has experienced the "poverty trap" effect of the current system and also the serious frustration felt by many at being unable to afford adequate childcare on one wage and return to full-time employment.
I would welcome an overhaul of the welfare system but I would also urge Martin Cullen not to put the cart before the horse on this occasion by making changes to the system whilst there is a lack of affordable childcare places available. Rushing such changes may put many children at risk of being left at home alone by parents who can simply not afford childcare on one, often unskilled wage. - Yours, etc,
CAROLINE BURGESS, Killala Road, Cabra, Dublin 7.