Letter of the Day

TDs, scrolling and mobile etiquette in the Dáil

The lost art of listening

Letter of the Day
Letter of the Day
Fri Apr 12 2024 - 05:00

Sir, – Tuesday marked an important day with the election of our Taoiseach and new Ministers. However, what followed in the Dáil was rather disappointing. After the confirmation, it is customary for Opposition parties to make comments about the Taoiseach and the team. However, I was disheartened to witness that over half of the members of parliament left before all the comments were made, leaving the chamber nearly empty. Even more concerning was the fact that many were preoccupied with their mobile phones, showing a lack of respect and interest in what the Opposition had to say. This behaviour is not an isolated incident and seems to happen all too frequently, not just in our country but in many others too.

The dismissive attitude toward opposing viewpoints is concerning and undermines the principles of democracy. How can we expect progress and effective governance when there is no willingness to listen to differing perspectives?

Surely, the Government party can learn valuable insights and perspectives from the ideas put forth by the Opposition. It is through healthy debate and a diversity of opinions that better decisions can be made for the benefit of the country as a whole. Dismissing or ignoring the voices of the Opposition only serves to hinder progress and create further division.

It is crucial that all members of parliament, regardless of party affiliation, show respect for the democratic process and actively engage in discussions that contribute to the betterment of our nation. Let us strive for a political environment where all voices are heard and valued, and where decisions are made through informed and inclusive dialogue. – Yours, etc,

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PETER MALBASHA,

Blackrock,

Co Dublin.