Sir, - Paul Cullen's article (July 26th) entitled "Former staff critical of organisation" presents a very negative picture which is inaccurate and offensive to those who have worked for GOAL in the past and to all who continue to tackle suffering in the Third World with the organisation.
GOAL is not a "two-tier organisation". Goalies are renowned for their initiative and drive, an asset envied by many other NGOs in the field. The claim that "senior management call all the shots" is bizarre. Volunteers who work with GOAL are given far greater autonomy in the field than members of countless other aid agencies.
True, many of GOAL's best do leave to work for other agencies, but it is also evident that many come back. The past 12 months have seen the return of some of GOAL's finest. Our programmes have benefited greatly as a result.
There are strict guidelines and a recognised management structure within GOAL. It is quite obvious that some have chosen to ignore this fact. The current attack on the management structure within GOAL is an assault on all of those working for the organisation. Goalies in the field have tremendous respect and loyalty for the present structure which is in place at the GOAL head office in Dublin.
The only losers in this whole affair are the needy of the Third World which GOAL and other organisations attempt to assist. - Yours, etc.,
Colin Lee
Field Director, GOAL, Kenya.