What you can do for your country

Madam, – Is it just me or has our country taken on the distinct appearance of an abandoned plot? Everywhere I go there seem …

Madam, – Is it just me or has our country taken on the distinct appearance of an abandoned plot? Everywhere I go there seem to be weeds growing and grass in good need of a cut, particularly alongside roads and footpaths.

I have heard several people say that given the current rate of unemployment and the general desire of active people to stay active, they would be happy to play their part. I wonder, has the Government any position on requiring work in return for unemployment assistance?

I’m not suggesting boot-camp or slave labour, but surely some people who would like to be active while they search for a job would be willing to complete 10 to 15 hours a week work for the good of their country?

We were once an “emerald isle” with tourists flocking to our shores. Our towns and countryside are a shame to us as a nation and it appears that nothing is being done. – Yours, etc,

DECLAN GIBNEY,

Mc Curtain Street,

Gorey, Co Wexford.