Madam, - In the last century people with leftist views were hounded by Senator Joe McCarthy even from work as film actors. The politically correct view in Europe today is that because people or groups are fully equal in some respects (though not in all) they have a right to be treated identically in all respects. This is faulty logic.
The appointment of the Italian representative in the European Commission, Mr Buttiglione, has been rejected because he thinks that, while same sex unions are legal, they are not identical with marriage. This distinguished man's career is endangered because "liberal" MEPs (representing us) discriminated against him because of his legally held opinion. Is this the proper conduct to be expected of each party as it gains a majority of one in a parliamentary vote?
Individually and collectively we all discriminate. Sometimes this is unjust. Often we approve or are silent. For generations extra marks have been awarded in the Leaving Certificate, to those answering through Irish. Points won in this examination can critically affect scholarships and the opportunity to enter coveted employment training. This discrimination is deliberate and we do not voice objection.
In short, is it never right to discriminate? Is it sometimes wrong not to discriminate. Certainly we need to think. - Yours, etc.,
LOUIS SMITH,
The Elms,
Dublin 4.
Madam, - Some professedly liberal members of the European Parliament object to the appointment of Rocco Buttiglione as a Commissioner because he expressed his views on homosexuality. Another example of the buffoonery which emanates from that redundant institution. - Yours, etc.,
T. O'CONNOR,
Churchtown,
Dublin 14.