Sir, - Go for it, Charlie, and recapture the vision of Fianna Fail being a party for all people, occupations and incomes! Recapture the vision of fairness and equality and share the wealth that many of us are enjoying by increasing the personal tax allowances rather than by reducing tax rates. A £1,000-a-year reduction in taxes through a lowering of rates is very pleasant for families on high incomes, but fairness demands that, say, £500 is given to all taxpaying families through a significant increase in personal allowances.
You are in the fortunate position of being able to do not only what your head suggests but what your heart desires and at the same time make a universally popular decision. That situation does not often occur during the term of a Minister for Finance. So go for it - and make a name for yourself in Irish history as the Minister who brought fairness and equality back into the annual Budget. - Yours, etc.,
Blackrock, Co Dublin.