Madam, - Rick Lines (Opinion & Analysis, October 26th) makes the astonishing claim that "locking up" criminals "does nothing for the cause of justice". I am sure criminals all over Ireland will wholeheartedly agree with Mr Lines (assuming they read The Irish Times).
I am equally sure that victims of crime are sickened to read such drivel. Mr Lines seems to believe that every thug, junkie and lowlife wants to be redeemed. His prescription would only embolden criminals as they would not face appropriate punishment for their crimes.
The reality is that in post Second World War Europe, successive governments have played into the hands of the criminal classes. They have encouraged vast welfare systems which make the ignorant believe that society owes them a living. Perhaps the biggest lie of all has been the perverse claim that criminals are victims too.
Man was born free to choose. Those who choose crime should face the full vigour of the law. And if that law proves too soft it should be strengthened. - Yours, etc,
JOHN KENNY, Arundel, Monkstown Valley, Co Dublin.