Sir, – The way Sinn Féin and Fianna Fáil have been undermining the present holder of the office has been a disgrace. A stand has to be taken to ensure that both the dignity and impartiality of the office are recognised and respected. – Yours, etc,
ROBERT DUFFY,
Hacketstown,
Co Carlow.
Sir, – TDs should know that the Ceann Comhairle does not have the same options as a current affairs interviewer, who merely says “We have run out of time”, thanks the panel, and moves to the next item for discussion. Those who stand against the Ceann Comhairle are standing against the democratic process. – Yours, etc,
THOMAS J CLARKE,
Ayrfield, Dublin 13.
Sir, – I have no party affiliations but I despair when the politicians descend into petulance at the most minor of perceived infringements. I played amateur soccer for many years and if you opened your mouth to even question a referee’s decision, you were booked. Even your own manager roared at you to shut up.
Referees make mistakes. They are human but generally get most of it right. Players accepted this. Compare and contrast the game with behaviour in the Dáil. We have players disputing every decision; crying foul when none was committed; refusing to leave the pitch when when red-carded; and now walking off the pitch, saying they want another referee. – Yours, etc,
MICHAEL ROONEY,
Knocknacarra,
Galway.