Madam, – Is there a danger given the present investigative obsession with past abuses that we could become indifferent and even blind to current injustices in our society? It is widely accepted that the family is the natural cell of society and it is in the State’s best interest to invest in it and do all in its power to protect and enhance its development for the good of all humanity and social order. I don’t think this is happening.
The necessity of both young parents to seek work outside the home to make ends meet is a blatant injustice and an erosion of the fundamentals for the formation of emotionally secure healthy young adults.
Whereas good progress has been made in meeting the nutritional needs of babies and young children, there seems to be a lack of understanding of their emotional needs. I believe that a premature breach in bonding between mother and baby is detrimental to the nurturing process begun in the womb, enhanced by breastfeeding where possible, and blossoming in a loving relationship between father and mother in the security of their own home. What should be a natural right for every child conceived has become a luxury for the few.
Surely this deprivation has to impact on social behaviour, particularly in the teenage years?
It would help if the State would remove the penalty tax (individualisation) on single-income families and financially reward mothers of young children who choose to stay at home. This would also facilitate some unemployed to get back to work. Employers too could be more flexible in accommodating mothers of young children in part-time work, and allowing working from home where it is feasible. – Yours, etc,