Madam, - Judges in court cases have a very difficult and responsible job, where all the facts, circumstances and legal argument have to be considered over several days. It is therefore highly irresponsible for phone-in radio shows to discuss a court case in a one-sided and selective fashion. This growing practice panders to mob rule and it is depressing when politicians jump to the tune of such shows by rushing legislation and introducing mandatory sentences which ignore all circumstantial consideration.
Any of us can be unfortunate enough to end up in court, and I would much prefer to be judged by Mr Justice Carney, who is not known for his leniency, than be judged by ill-informed people baying for punishment. - Yours, etc,
PAT HUGHES, Bird Avenue, Dublin 14.