Madam, - With the amendment to Article 2 of the Constitution, we repudiated a model of identity based on conservative nationalism for one of inclusive republicanism.
The idea of citizenship based on place of birth is consistent with our republican traditions. It contrasts starkly with the current nativist proposal of citizenship as a derived privilege. Nobody should be disfranchised because of who his or her parents are.
As recently noted here by Seán Mullen (May 6th), the Taoiseach made scant reference to Christianity in his presentation on the EU Constitution and the values that should inform it (Rite and Reason, May 3rd) .
He made no reference whatever to republicanism.
It would appear of late that both words have turned to dust in the Taoiseach's mouth.
In light of the 27th Amendment, as proposed, it could not be otherwise. - Yours, etc.,
MICHAEL KEATING, Ulster Street, Phibsborough, Dublin 7.
Madam, - Dr Neville Cox (May 10th) writes that the citizenship referendum seeks to establish that a genetic connection to the "pure Irish race" is a necessary pre-requisite of Irishness.
What "pure" Irish race is he referring to? Does he mean the Norman Irish, the Jewish Irish, Irish men and women of Scandinavian origin, Anglo-Irish, Scots Irish, the old Gaelic Irish or perhaps the Firbolg? There is no such thing as a pure Irish race!
The question I pose is simple. Is there anything wrong in asking that the parent of a child born in Ireland, irrespective of the parent's race, ethnicity, colour, creed, gender or nationality, should fulfill a certain period of residency in Ireland before the birth of the child in order that our immigration laws may not be abused? There is no genetic connection in this requirement.
Is it not reasonable to ask that we should be allowed some sovereignty in these matters? - Yours, etc.,
JOE MURRAY Pembroke Road, Dublin 4.