Sir, - There is no doubt that the Air Corps and Naval Service are in dire need of an injection of new equipment and personnel. However, Adrian English and Maria O'Flaherty (November 25th) are missing the point in defending Comdt Flanagan's criticism of government policy in regard to the purchase of new military equipment.
It is extremely dangerous for democracy when the military are allowed to become involved in political matters. Unfortunately, this is exactly what happened when senior military officers, including the Chief of Staff himself, were allowed to make public pronouncements in support of the Government's decision to join Partnership for Peace (PfP).
It is hardly surprising, then, that other senior officers now feel free to make public comment on other matters in order to influence Government decisions. It is the duty of Government and the Opposition to ensure that the Defence Forces have the means to carry out their mission. Apart from an advisory role through the Department of Defence, military personnel should be strictly forbidden from interfering in Government business.
The Government should act immediately and decisively to halt the politicising of the military, or it will risk the militarisation of politics. - Yours etc.,
Anthony Sheridan, Carraig Eoin, Cobh, Co Cork.