We must not give the Government more powers than they need in this current pandemic crisis

ALL those clamouring for the Government to assume more power in the present emergency need to be careful what they wish for.

When you give governments too much power, they may not be in any hurry to hand it back.

History is littered with examples of politicians who were gifted power in extreme situations and abused it: it seemed like a good idea at the time.

In hindsight, and on reflection, people realised they had made a terrible mistake and it had consequences: their second situation turned out to be worse than the first.

We are living in extreme times that require extreme measures, but we shouldn’t allow it to cloud our judgment and throw caution to the wind.

Yes, the Government has to introduce emergency measures, but this comes with a health warning. In the past, politicians were only too willing to respond to public demand, which they initiated, then manipulated. This situation is different, but the principle is the same.

By all means support the Government as it takes unprecedented measures, but let us be vigilant; power can so easily be open to abuse. We need to remember the freedoms we now enjoy came at a price and we don’t want them to slip easily, or sell them cheap.

Go with the flow, be sensible and be responsible. Don’t take risks and sail close to the wind. Steer close to the shore and don’t stray out of your depth into dangerous waters. Weigh up sound advice, but don’t be swamped by mass hysteria.

Above all, we need to understand that well-meaning, but irresponsible and dangerous, people can open the door for governments to introduce measures that may have serious consequences for all of us further down the line.

Not long ago, people were criticising Boris Johnson for betraying Ulster. Now, he’s f lavour of the month. I rest my case.

CLIVE MAXWELL Bleary, Co Armagh