Sir, – I wish to suggest, with socially appropriate PAYE humility, that the reaction to Jim Stafford’s radio interview about solicitors, accountants and their houses has been begrudging (Hugh Linehan, “Stafford let mask slip on how our betters cope with crash”, Opinion & Analysis, September 14th).
At a time when there is a lack of confidence in the economy and in the natural leaders of our people, it is vital that appearances be maintained.
Ireland has long been led by people whose appearance and reality were far apart and it is crucial that this be continued.
In addition, it’s about time that the contribution of insolvent solicitors and accountants to Irish society was finally and appropriately recognised. Not only should they be maintained in houses that someone else is paying for but which reflect their position in society, but the Government should also introduce tax deductions so they can more easily afford the elegant clothes and German cars they need.
In addition, subsidies and restrictive practices should be introduced so that their children are always in the best schools and their ability to earn supra-normal incomes is copper-fastened.
We can thus ensure the perfection reflected by current Irish society is maintained and that Ireland continues to be led by the kind of accountants and solicitors that have brought us so far. – Yours, etc,
HUGH SHEEHY,
Marine Drive,
Dublin 4.