Swooning nausea
The Murdoch media has displayed unbridled support for George Pell, consistently rejecting criticism of him for many years. As Richard Ackland (“How Cardinal George Pell seduced News Corp”, January 21-27) wrote so succinctly, their shamelessly one-sided commentary since his death was “swooning” to a nauseating degree. Ackland also detailed the publishing of relentless attacks on journalists who reported serious allegations made against Pell. This is mirrored by constant vilification of political enemies both here and abroad. Spiteful critiques of Jacinda Ardern in The Australian recently exemplify their ongoing belligerence.
– Mike Anderson, Holt, ACT for gambling reform in NSW. Seccombe quotes Tim Costello’s views that former one-armedbandits have now morphed into “mini-casinos – not-for-profits paying their CEOS $1.5 million salaries”. This should be reason enough for some real reform. Surely though, addiction and harm problems are paramount. Gambling splits families and crowds hospital and other services. Perrottet is obviously trying to limit the harm with mandatory cashless gaming, but NSW Labor leader Chris Minns needs to do more than a feeble trial with a time limit. Labor’s resistance to do more is disappointing, when we know that the most disadvantaged people are the ones who suffer the most from gambling. These communities are supposed to represent a major area of Labor’s policy concern.
– Joanna Jaaniste, Lilyfield, NSW and sisters as we have never seriously listened before. Yet he seems only prepared to listen to those who toe the party line, dismissing those who criticise the Voice as “perennially disaffected”. There are many in Indigenous communities who have serious concerns about the Voice, many arguing Treaty should come first. I hope The Saturday Paper gives space to a range of Indigenous perspectives – we don’t need to hear from any more old, white ex-politicians.
– Susan Miller, Altona, Vic
January 21-27). Thanks for giving credit to a genuine champion. And please more articles about the wonderful female athletes out there. Like: Ash Gardner and her quiet education for us all about issues for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
– Robyn James, Healesville, Vic