Sir, – Fionnuala Walsh's suggestion (February 27th) that colour coding the cable ties used to affix political posters to utility poles might lead to naming and shaming candidates into removing them post election is an excellent idea. However, it relies on the unproven assumption that all political candidates have the capacity to feel shame and respond to moral pressure.
On the other hand, there is overwhelming proof they are responsive in the matter of “recovering” expenses. I suggest all cable ties be candidate coded and supplied by the local authority; that they be sold to candidates for one euro each; that this be refunded, less a product and handling fee, when they are taken down and returned.
The candidates’ accounts would be charged €10 for any cable tie – or poster – not removed within four weeks. Any remaining expenses incurred by the local authority could be recovered by a direct deduction from taxpayers’ subventions to the party leader’s allowance – we have positive proof that candidates respond to the power of the whip and that party leaders have little hesitation in using them when they feel the pinch. – Yours, etc,
MICHAEL ANDERSON,
Moyclare Close,
Baldoyle, Dublin 13.
Sir, – Barry Colfer (February 28th) suggests I report those in breach of poster legislation to the local authority or litter warden. I had to laugh. The upcoming election is for the local authority and what litter warden would cross those likely to be his bosses? He then suggest the easy solution of looking away – I had to laugh even more. Sure any time there’s an election here as soon as you turn around there’s another poster glaring at you (or if you’re really unlucky the candidates themselves!). – Yours, etc,
MATTHEW LYONS,
Harrisons Place,
Charleville, Co Cork.