Little confidence in Micheál Martin – but in Norma Foley and Pa Daly, we are ably represented

SIR,

So, we have a new Government and a new opposition in Micheál Martin. I have very little confidence in him to lead this country in present times.

The ceasefire has lasted over 25 years, the outcome of the Good Friday Agreement is now in existence for over 20 years and has worked to a greater or lesser degree. The Governance of the north is by no means perfect, but cross-community support has been made to work.

The Taoiseach appears to liken the northern conflict to the Boston Tea Party: of easy resolution. Micheál, it was a

War between the British state and the Nationalist/Republican movement and is deserving of more serious consideration than you’ve shown it to date.

The leaderships of Fine Gael and Labour and others are equally as guilty of back-biting and detraction from Sinn Féin, as indeed have their friends and supporters in the media. The

Kerryman is among a small group of journals who are notable exceptions, and in its deliberations down the years has always given a more considered opinion and analysis.

Norma Foley is the newly elected TD for Kerry and was appointed as Minister for Education: congratulations to her. She appears a bright, intelligent and capable representative to serve Kerry and the country. As far as I am aware, she has not resorted to misrepresenting the Republican movement.

Also, very much to the fore is Sinn Féin Deputy Pa Daly. Pa is and always will be a very able representative for Kerry and Ireland. He is from a legal background, cares about justice and civil rights, and has heart and spirit for a more equitable and shared society. In the Dáil, I’m sure Pa will be a very able advocate of Sinn Féin policy and will not oppose for the sake of opposing.

Could Norma Foley and Pa Daly work together for the benefit of all? I believe they can. The future could be bright.

In the frightening and uncertain COVID times, I say to the naysayers of FF, FG, the Unionists and all: ‘This is your land, this is my land, from the Giant’s Causeway to Valentia Island; From Conamara hillsides to the Dublin mountains, this land is made for you and me. Sincerely,

Maurice Moore, Tubridmore, Ardfert.