I write to strongly refute the claims made in your article “Auditing changes could damage foreign investment into Ireland.” (Sep 26).

Minister Reilly’s addition of two locations in his constituency to a priority list for primary care centres reflects the lack of openness and transparency that has plagued this administration.

Nobody objects to the long-awaited and deserving Children’s Rights Referendum being set for Saturday, Nov 12.

Night after night, I hear smug ministers on TV and radio defending the Government’s austerity cuts by telling us we are borrowing €16bn to €18bn a year to pay for our services, etc.

As I was out of the country, I did not see the letter written by Finbarr Wright, concerning the lack of, or none, to be precise, air connections between Dublin and Cork Airports.

Your editorial (Sep 27) stated “the purpose of the prison system may be to punish criminals and protect society ...”

I wonder are these Government ministers living in the real world?

Every year, at least 5,800 people die of smoking-related diseases and illness. I am a student, 17, and I smoke, but if it was banned I would have to give up.

The clear, unambiguous statements of Cork City councillors (Council: Criminalise buying of sex, Irish Examiner, Sep 25), in calling for an end to sex trafficking by making it illegal to pay for sex, stand in marked contrast to the silence of local TDs on the issue.

I admire former Labour TD Roisín Shortall for making a stand and following her conscience in resigning as Minister of State at the Department of Health.