Madam, - Vincent Browne (Opinion, February 21st) believes that the proposed constitutional change in relation to "soft" information on people who may pose a risk to children is part of a "charade".
It is a pity that somebody with a strong background in investigative reporting did not investigate some of the jurisdictions where similar systems operate. Just across the border in Northern Ireland the pre-employment consultancy system (PECS) has provided just such a regime for many years.
There is no evidence that people are subject to unfair treatment there. Indeed this system is robust in its protection of children and potential employees at the same time. Any system in this State would of course have to be similarly rigorous. At present, rumour and innuendo can circulate by way of unwritten references and consultation. The advantage of having an official system is that everyone's rights are protected. As it stands, the Constitution is clear on only one set of rights. - Yours, etc,
DIARMUID KEARNEY, Chief Executive, Youth Work Ireland, Lower Dominick Street, Dublin 1.