The recent hysteria that accompanied the decision by the Irish Daily Star to print topless photographs of Kate Middleton is even more evidence of this country’s perverse fascination with the British royal family.

The Programme for Government says: “We will open up the budget process to the full glare of public scrutiny in a way that restores confidence”.

So, Finance Minister Michael Noonan has put us all at ease by dismissing pressure from the IMF to levy house owners with a 0.5% property tax — it’s more likely to be closer to 0.25%.

I agree with the comments of Sean Power (Letters, Sept 18).

Your editorial (Sept 15) regarding “charities” is both timely and correct — it is a joke that this sector is unregulated, and also that no effort is made to cap what individuals attached to it take from it by way of remuneration.

I must admit to having been unaware of the upcoming charity fundraising event at the K Club to raise funds for the Jack and Jill Foundation, a most worthy cause, until I read the letter from Peter Mulvany (Irish Examiner, Sept 14).

I am writing this in relation to the demonstration that took place on Sept 9 at Assumption Road in Cork City.

It is the duty of the government of a civilised country that the children have a very good primary education.

Regulations for the building of slurry tanks must be reviewed in light of the death of Nevin Spence, the gifted 22-year-old rugby player, who died alongside his father and brother, because the same could happen again to another family.

Regarding the new property tax proposed by the government, this, I understand, is to be imposed on the owners of the property.