A chara, - Your Editorial of July 15th suggests that since the introduction of identity cards might not have prevented the London bombings, their introduction would be more trouble than they are worth. This is an erroneous conclusion.
I accept that identity cards can no more prevent the commission of a crime which an individual is determined to commit than the present legal obligation to affix identification marks to motor vehicles can prevent reckless driving.
In the case of the registration of motor vehicles, one of the objectives is to facilitate the tracing of vehicles which might be improperly used, rather than to actively prevent misuse. But, because of the increased possibility of being able to trace errant drivers, the registration process also provides positive pressure on drivers to behave.
This same logic can be applied to the introduction of identity cards. While murdering suicide bombers may not be deterred by the fact that they can more easily be traced, many of their preparatory activities, as well as the activities of other criminals and supporters, may be more easily supervised by the police service once an effective identity card system is in place. And, in the event of wrongs done, the police investigations will likely be swifter and, consequently, more effective - thus helping to prevent recurrences.
You also express concern for the possible negative effects on tourist and business activities. But in the globalised society in which we now live, is it not beyond time that all persons of good intent - tourists, visiting business people, as well as natives - should, in the cause of the common good, be willing to carry certified details of their identity?
In this way, the option of multiple identities will be denied to wrongdoers. In the light of 9/11, of Madrid, London and other atrocities, we have to accept that past securities have disappeared and that we are living in a newly insecure, borderless world, where wrongdoers may skip across whole continents between sunrise and sunset.
One response to the arrival of the global nation should be the requirement of each individual being able to prove her/his identity as a guarantee of good intentions, in whatever place or country they happen to be. This can most effectively be done with an identity card having international validation.
I hope that sensitivity to the feelings of "liberals", as exhibited in your Editorial, and as espoused by the Minister for Justice, will not preclude the Government from doing its duty and taking all necessary legislative steps, including the introduction of identity cards, to safeguard Irish society from the threats posed by criminal elements (including suicide bombers).
Without security when going about our daily lives, we have no freedom. - Is mise,
LIAM Ó GÉIBHEANNAIGH, Áth an Ghainimh, Co Átha Cliath.
