Simon Harris – priorities and promises

Sir, – It was interesting to note comments made by Simon Harris in his speech to Fine Gael members in Galway on Saturday. Mention of law and order issues and of resources for An Garda Síochána are indeed welcome, along with increasing the defence budget. However, the issue of retention, which has plagued the Defence Forces for over a decade, is now been evidenced in An Garda Síochána. In order to solve the problems of retention in both organisations, consideration should be given to removing uniformed services from the single pension scheme and to the introduction of a services-specific model that allows an individual leave after their full term in the Defence Forces, An Garda Síochána, Prison Service, etc, with a full pension. Currently, many leave mid-service due to the unsatisfactory pension arrangements. The implementation of the working time directive for members of the Defence Forces would also assist with retention. I hope Simon Harris will prioritise measures to address problems in both organisations and will deliver what is required regarding the defence and security of the State. – Yours, etc,

CONOR HOGARTY,

Blackrock,

Co Dublin.

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Sir, – Simon Harris made some strong comments regarding the ongoing crisis in Gaza at the Fine Gael ardfheis on Saturday. Actions are stronger than mere words and if he wants to do something constructive then Ireland needs to recognise the Palestinian state. Let him do that when the Dáil resumes this coming week. – Is mise,

PAUL DORAN,

Dublin 22.

Sir, – Simon Harris has a lot of talking to do in the years ahead.

As a favour to himself and the listeners, would he please slow down! – Yours, etc,

OLIVER McGRANE,

Dublin 16.

Sir, – Speculation swirls like Storm Kathleen about what wonders Simon Harris will conjure once he becomes Taoiseach. Yet, amidst all the grand visions and lofty rhetoric, I dare to propose a simpler yardstick for his success: clean streets, solid infrastructure, and, of course, the ever-essential measure of a nation’s well-being, the price of a pint. – Yours, etc,

ENDA CULLEN,

Armagh.

Sir, – In the blink of a Taoiseach, the housing target is increased by 50 per cent.

The return of magical thinking. – Yours, etc,

RORY E MacFLYNN,

Blackrock,

Co Dublin.