Sir - Cllr Jim D'Arcy of Fine Gael (March 27th) implies that I have abandoned the principles of the Progressive Democrats and the legacy of my late relative, Donough O'Malley, in regard to free education and individual free choice.
Free education and health services have always been implemented in this country consistent with individual freedom - freedom to choose one's own doctor or school, freedom to practice medicine, freedom to set up hospitals and schools. I and my party continue to stand for that, while we address the obvious deficiencies in health and education.
As a member of the MidWestern Health Board for 20 years, I have campaigned consistently to end the two-tier health system that has evolved over the years in Ireland. To address this, our party first proposed the universal private health insurance system at our conference in Cork last November and we will develop this policy proposal to put to the people in the next general election.
I stand by the O'Malley record of service to all the people of Limerick. - Yours, etc.,
Cllr Tim O'Malley, Dooradoyle, Co Limerick.