Madam, - The Irish Times is to be commended for highlighting the serious problem of falling electoral turnouts (Editorial, May 6th). A higher share of the electorate voted in some referendums 10 years ago than in last year's general election.
You mention that in some European countries, a fine is imposed on citizens who fail to vote, adding that such a system might be unfair on the grounds that the right to vote includes the right to abstain.
But should we not consider the act of voting more of a duty than a right? In an age of increasing rights of citizens, are there not also certain responsibilities - such as the obligation to participate in the process of electing people to make decisions on our behalf? If a citizen refuses to undertake jury duty without an adequate excuse, he or she is punished.
Why shouldn't there be a penalty for those who abstain from democratic participation? - Yours etc.
STEPHEN DINEEN, Lakelands Close, Kilmacud, Co Dublin.