Sir, - Following on from Paul Williams's speech to the PD Conference in Clare on November 23rd, I, would concur fully with his analysis and observations on the issue of crime in Ireland. However, I feel that, while I agree with him for apportioning blame to all the major political parties for their neglect and marginalisation of certain sections and areas of our major cities and towns, I believe that he did not fully explain why many young people in these areas are currently drawn to criminal activities.
Paul Williams is correct in saying that many young people feel they, have no hope of succeeding legitimately in this society, and see crime and a general Flouting of society as a means of gaining respect and status. However, what example is being shown by the rest of society and the respectable and professional classes?
The impoverished and underprivileged see a society, which rewards greed and selfishness. They see the economic cake avidly consumed by the "haves", while the "have nots" are given the crumbs. The middle classes have marginal interest in these communities, commuting in as gardai, teachers, social workers or doctors, and returning to their middle class enclaves, glad to get away. Young people are not naive or stupid; they see the larger farmers and some of the self employed defrauding the State, and the see lawyers and doctors receiving huge remuneration disproportionate to the effort expended.
As a member of the Labour Party, I pose the question: is it morally justified that a person with a degree and professional qualification be entitled to a wage qualification be entitled to a wage five or 10 times the average social welfare payment? I eagerly await the wrath of your readers. - Yours, etc.,
BA Hons,
Nangor Road,
Clondalkin,
Dublin 22.