Sir, - We wish to express outrage and incredulity at the Government's proposals to give the churches considerable legal powers over the appointment of teachers. Is this not a wholly retrograde step in the light of repeated promises to make Ireland a more secularised and pluralist society, as contained in the Downing Street Declaration?
One's religious beliefs should be a matter of individual conscience and should not pervade the public domain in such a destructive and insensitive fashion. Such Government action will surely institutionalise sectarianism in our society We should give an example to our children by promoting reconciliation in our schools instead of perpetuating divisions and distrust for future generations. Yours, etc..
Harold's Cross Road,
Harold's Cross,
Dublin 6W.