Sir, - Your recent report on "punishment" attacks gave a comprehensive account. However, it left important questions unanswered, and indeed unasked.
We are told that the RUC is esteemed throughout the Unionist community, to the point where even a change of its name is a risk to the peace process. We are also told that only large-scale reform can reconcile nationalists to the police force.
Why, then, is the level of vigilante-style attacks so similar in two communities, one policed by a constabulary it reveres and the other by what it perceives as an antagonistic, sectarian police force? Moreover, what prevents the RUC from controlling "punishment" attacks within a community in which it is so highly esteemed?
Perhaps you could supplement your photographs and interviews with an in-depth analysis of these questions. It is an area in which good investigative journalism might save lives and prevent injuries - in both communities. - Yours, etc.,
Frank Fitzpatrick, Howth Road, Dublin 3.