Madam, - No doubt JP McManus deserves the award of Philanthropist of the Year and Niall Mellon is a worthy recipient of the award for International Philanthropist of the Year. Sir Anthony O'Reilly basks in the warm glow of his altruism. Bono and Bob Geldof are feted and renowned for their efforts at eliminating global poverty.
However, as a lowly taxpayer I and others like me have few opportunities to don a tuxedo or affect a carefully cultivated "scruffy look". Meanwhile every euro in income tax paid by me and the rest of the State's resident workforce disappears into health and other State services to little or no acclaim.
I am not at all envious of those whose huge wealth requires that they live in offshore tax havens or who are able to structure their wealth in tax-efficent vehicles. I fully accept that the taxation system be used to fuel an entrepreneurial culture.
However, I find it increasingly nauseating to have to endure the fawning and sycophantic eulogies delivered on those who are fortunate enough to select pet projects for their patronage.
I have no choice about where my tax money is spent. I would like to think it was used to endow a university library, to build a world-class opera theatre or to fund state-of-the-art sports facilities. I too could manage a wry, knowing smile as my generosity was feted and my modesty would be evident in my thank you speech! Perhaps the Revenue Commissioners might institute the inaugural awards ceremony for Taxpayer of the Year in 2008. - Yours, etc,
MICHAEL J SHOVELIN, Kevinsfort Heath, Strandhill Road, Sligo.