Both the far right and far left converge in a shared goal of protesting the perceived guilt of others for their own social alienation. In today’s world, the remnants of past conflicts still linger beneath the passage of time. The degradation of others serves as a clear signal of the increasing madness within humanity. – Eugene Tannam, Firhouse, Dublin 24
Increasing the availability of unaffordable properties will not resolve the housing crisis. It is encouraging to see someone paying attention to this issue (‘Don’t bail out landlords – help the squeezed middle caught in rent trap’, Irish Independent, September 26). Mary McCarthy is right to criticize the crude plan of using taxpayers’ money to support landlords in an attempt to tackle the housing crisis. By doing so, the government is indirectly supporting high rents that prevent thousands of citizens from accessing decent housing. It is worth considering an alternative approach – using the tax system to penalize landlords who charge rents that exceed 30% of the average industrial wage. Critics argue that such a surcharge would drive landlords out of the market, but fail to recognize that even if the landlord leaves, the property remains as a potential home. In the midst of this crisis, it makes no logical sense to propose a tax cut for landlords in Budget 2024. Instead, all available funds should be directed towards constructing more housing units, rather than lining the pockets of property owners and perpetuating sky-high rents. One has to question if the government is genuinely interested in finding a solution to the crisis. The Housing for All policy document is filled with cliches and meaningless jargon, which requires immense patience to read. It seems that the only objective the government is determined to achieve is maintaining exorbitant housing costs. Expanding the supply of unaffordable properties will not solve the housing crisis, yet that appears to be the current trajectory of government policy. It is imperative for the government to shift its focus from viewing housing as an opportunity for profit-making and instead recognize it as an essential social commodity that every citizen deserves. – Jim O’Sullivan, Rathedmond, Co Sligo
Overtime work should be exempt from taxation, as the current system is incredibly unfair. Companies are not charitable organizations and are primarily focused on generating profits for shareholders. However, the workers who are responsible for generating these profits do not receive adequate wages for their hard work. It is time to implement a law that ensures workers receive a 10% tax-free bonus from the profits at Christmas. This would also incentivize employees to dedicate themselves to their jobs. When individuals work overtime, they sacrifice time with their families to earn additional money to support them and provide small luxuries. It is unjust to tax these extra earnings. In this respect, governments can be seen as parasites. To rectify this unfair situation, a law should be introduced to make overtime earnings exempt from taxation. – John Fair, Castlebar, Co Mayo
I found Margaret Docherty’s letter (‘Lorraine Courtney needs to get out of her ’60s mentality to recognize the value of degrees’, Irish Independent, September 27) quite relatable as it resonates with my own experience in the 1960s when I pursued a law degree that lasted only two years. As Margaret suggests, many individuals were pressured into pursuing careers they despised. Simon Harris has a commendable philosophy for leading a fulfilling life – finding one’s passion and pursuing that path. – Brian McDevitt, Glenties, Co Donegal
Why can’t the nation come together for a healing act and chant “Ooh, ah, up the zombie”? – Brian Ahern, Clonsilla, Dublin
I am delighted to witness the remarkable achievements of the Irish rugby team. Finally, Ireland has found something that unites its people. The fans are truly exceptional. I am thrilled to see them embrace a neutral song, “Zombie”. Can we as a unified island accept this and put an end to unnecessary controversies? – Gerard Walsh, Ontario, Canada
“No surrender” must be the West’s guiding principle when facing the warmongering actions of Vladimir Putin. The suggestion of ending the war in Ukraine with territorial concessions to Russia is deeply concerning. It is crucial for a lasting peace that Putin and Russia not only lose, but are also publicly seen to lose this war. – JJ Anthony Gaughan, Blackrock, Co Dublin
The recent seizure of the MV Matthew underscores the need for increased investment in our defense. For those uninformed individuals wondering why we must allocate more resources to our defense and security, the detention of the MV Matthew this week serves as a compelling reason. While politicians may praise the Gardaí and Defense Forces, the reality is that our defense and security forces are severely underfunded and lacking in resources. With an exclusive economic zone spanning 420,000 square kilometers, we possess only two patrol airplanes and two operational ships. Our maritime defenses are inadequate and we heavily rely on Britain and Europe for support. As Ireland continues to believe it can function independently without allies, it must fulfill its sovereign duty to adequately provide for national defense and security, while avoiding becoming a gateway for illegal activities such as narcotics. – Jason FitzHarris, Swords, Co Dublin
Denial of responsibility! Vigour Times is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
