Eighth is unclear

On the Eighth Amendment and the Constitution: this complex matter is dealt with in a mere sentence in Article 40.3.3 of the Constitution.

This lack of clarity led to two further referendums to give us the 13th and 14th Amendments to clarify the right to travel and the right to information. The entire subject is dealt with in just a few lines and has led to no less than three referendums within 10 years.

If we examine even the most simple piece of legislation we will see that it runs to several pages and definitions are given and exceptions provided for, if deemed appropriate.

I would suggest that the foregoing example makes the case for the repeal of the Eighth without replacement and that the matter should be dealt with properly on a free-vote basis by our legislators, who can answer to their electorate. Amendment to the legislation, if deemed necessary can be dealt with more speedily and at less cost.

Tom Burke,