Madam, - Hilda Geraghty (October 21st) calls for the resignation of the film censor, Mr John Kelleher, over his decision to certify an uncut version of the British film, 9 Songs. I would agree with her in calling for his resignation but for entirely different reasons.
That one individual can make a decision as to what four million Irish citizens can or cannot view is entirely wrong. Each person over the age of 18 is entitled to the right to make his or her own personal decision as to the sexual content of the movie.
Surely that is a privilege afforded to us all as citizens of a democratic state?
That Ms Geraghty has not seen 9 Songs herself and is relying upon second-hand information to form her opinion hardly reinforces the strength of her argument.
I would suggest she sees the movie before being so quick to call for withdrawals or resignations.
Not having seen the film, I cannot make any comment on its content. The movie may indeed be repugnant, but I would like to make that decision for myself. Censorship of any form is highly dangerous.The institutionalised sexual abuse that occurred for decades in Ireland was allowed to flourish in a society that encouraged repressive feelings of guilt and shame in matters of a sexual nature.
In our increasingly secular society, sex should be pushed into the public spotlight to be discussed and analysed in an intelligent and informed manner.
The horrific consequences of the decades of a "hear no evil, see no evil" policy should be a reminder to us all that shunning controversial issues is a recipe for disaster.
- Yours, etc.,
SHANE BROPHY, Rathfarnham, Dublin 16.