Madam, - Sinn Féin has once again attacked Michael McDowell, claiming (perhaps correctly) that it has a mandate to do so.
Surely the measure of a Minister for Justice is the upset which he inspires in people possessing a mandate which fails to condemn the use or threatened use of violence and other criminality. - Yours, etc.,
MICHAEL McGRATH, Barrister, Courthouse Chambers, Cork.
A chara, - The present impasse in the Northern peace process prompts me to write. Sadly I believe the turning point was the Taoiseach's surrender to Paisley's demand for IRA humiliation.
Since the Northern Bank raid there has been an avalanche of criticism of Sinn Féin. We are now living in very strange times, when organisations and individuals are found guilty without any evidence being tested in court. That is a very dangerous road to travel.
The Irish people owe a debt of gratitude to John Hume, Gerry Adams, Albert Reynolds, Martin McGuinness, Dr Martin Mansergh, Father Alex Reid and many unsung heroes who helped to achieve the peace process. It is estimated that the lives of about a thousand people have been saved by the efforts of those good people.
For a considerable period before that breakthrough in 1994, they had to withstand a barrage of criticism from certain quarters.
This campaign was led by the Sunday Independent. Prominent among those critics was Michael McDowell.
I strongly hold the view that the collapse of the Reynolds government was a catastrophe. Albert had drive and commitment.
I believe he would have achieved a comprehensive settlement years ago.
In recent times Mr McDowell has appeared to have usurped the role of Taoiseach. As a Fianna Fáil supporter, I strongly urge the Taoiseach to either muzzle or dismiss him before he does irreparable damage to the peace process. - Is mise,
MICHAEL O'CONNOR, Kilvoultra, Macroom, Co Cork.