We cannot presume that the authorities put humankind first

SIR,

Mankind has two flawed traits much in evidence at the moment – we presume and we trust.

We presume that major international humanitarian agencies are safeguarding our existence and we trust them to do so. As do world leaders.

But has human kind been let down by the developed world?

As far back as 2005, George Bush Jnr flagged the dangers of a worldwide flu pandemic for which we have no cure. Similarly, Bill Gates in 2015 identified a ‘corona virus’ pandemic as a danger to mankind and we should take action to find a vaccine. We need to ask, why was nothing done, and who decided there was no need? Why did morality and human life not prevail.

Surely, WHO, the UN and the EU were aware of these dangers? Remarkably, the EU recently announced they would create a stockpile of medical equipment, for the first time, to have some level of preparedness. The UN is remarkably silent.

It is universally accepted that Ireland Inc cannot plan strategically, instead pin-balling from crisis to crisis. But what of other, more developed countries? Business leaders all do the same thing every morning that all other employees would be fired for – read the newspapers. Why? – to be aware of world events to see opportunities or threats on the horizon. It is not helpful if those leaders go into denial in the face of a threat.

Meanwhile, closer to home, do we presume that Kerry County Council is acting to safeguard our interests? Consider the council’s planning zoning left in place since 2012 based on the many statements that the landscapes of north Kerry are ‘not important for scenery, tourism or recreation’ – including Ballybunion.

Consider Kerry County Council’s additional zoning of the county for future industry and future IT industry – the entire Listowel Municipal District is excluded.

Why do we go with the crowd and say nothing?

Perhaps the biggest change brought about by this pandemic is a public awakening. We cannot presume that authorities put human kind first. We should also measure carefully who we trust.

This world has changed forever. Mankind has seen the Promised Land - money appearing like manna from Heaven for urgent projects, expansion of healthcare, more housing immediately available, lower pollution, 12 weeks paid holiday for all – things that could not be done in the old world.

A few weeks into COVID-19 and the focus in all countries has shifted to protecting human kind and the world, not prompted by human intervention.

Introducing change in the average business takes years and is mostly unsuccessful – fear of change is the biggest obstacle and usually wins. In COVID-19 times, that fear is eliminated, survival is the issue.

The final challenge is to make the positive changes permanent.

In Ireland, State agencies, departments, local authorities up to now refused to criticise each other’s policies, all standing alone and separate.

Now, all have come together to face the new world. Having stepped into the new world, all governments need to reprioritise human welfare and equity over economic gain. Don’t just tweak existing policies - the newly enlightened public will not accept anything less,

Sincerely,

John O’Sullivan, Courthouse Road,

Listowel