Sir, - Discriminatory tactics are being used by the Departments of Finance and Defence in the denial of arrears of legitimate pension emoluments. The principal sufferers are people of lower ranks but most particularly widows, orphans and dependants of retired and now deceased pensioners.
The case made by the Government through its departmental negotiators is that it cannot afford these payments.
One can be forgiven for expressing some cynical amusement, especially in the light of the spate of recent extravagances, e.g. Farmleigh House (£23 million) and laughably expensive and unproductive Tribunals. All major parties in the Dail have supported these wasteful financial indulgences.
The claim to which I refer would cost a moderate sum and would represent a charitable recognition of a valid entitlement. - Yours, etc.,
Kevin Hanley, Athlone, Co Westmeath.