Is there really a stampede to the political right?

Sir, – In “Political stampede to the right can only be good for democracy” (Justine McCarthy, Opinion & Analysis, March 29th), it is alleged that Willie O’Dea and myself have a yearning for a shift to the right.

It interests me that the definition of “right wing” has changed so much during my time in politics. It now seems to mean a politics based solely on liberal values and on individual rights rather than being defined by community obligation and a fair distribution of income and wealth.

I presume, therefore, that my supposed yearning for a shift to the right is based on my opposition to abortion and the fact that I felt the proposals put forward in the recent referendums were flawed.

On the latter issue, my view was shared by the vast majority of those who voted in the referendums.

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In relation to abortion, it is correct that I disagree with the taking of human life, just as I also oppose capital punishment.

Similarly, I worry about the recent drift in Europe towards militarism as a solution and take a strong view that politics, peaceful civil action, and dialogue are always preferable to war.

I stand on my record of working with the most disadvantaged in society, including Travellers, prisoners, and urban and rural disadvantaged, not causes typically associated with the right. The membership of the Oireachtas committees I serve on illustrates my priorities. These are the Joint Oireachtas Committee on Social Protection, Rural and Community Development and the Islands, and the Joint Committee on Key Issues Affecting the Traveller Community, of which I am also vice-chair. On both committees, I have worked hard for the betterment of those least well-off in our society.

However, if my values as outlined now define the “right”, I can live with the label. – Is mise,

ÉAMON Ó CUÍV TD,

Fianna Fáil,

Teach Laighean,

Baile Átha Cliath 2.