Madam, - Patsy McGarry made very accurate observations in his article in your edition of March 10th about Trócaire's relationship to the Roman Catholic Church and the same Church's treatment of women.
There is, however, an equally serious issue in Irish society which is particularly relevant in the run-up to a general election. While still holding considerable power, the Catholic Church no longer represents almost the whole of Irish society. The Government, on the other hand is supposed to represent that society.
At present women comprise 13 per cent of the Dáil while in the country generally females make up 52 per cent of the population. There are questions to be answered by political parties about their commitment to gender equality and questions too for the Government on its treatment of women and its failure to enable greater participation by women in political life. - Yours, etc,
MARY SHANAHAN Ballyheigue, Co Kerry.