THE polemic rhetoric of opposition TDs regarding property taxes is reminiscent of the Communist agitators in France in the 1960s when mass protests against increase in taxes were called.

CONCERN Worldwide and Trócaire would like to pay a joint tribute to the Irish public this Christmas for the remarkable response to the east Africa emergency appeal.

IN response to your columnist Matt Cooper, I recommend that he step down from his lofty heights.

EVER since the budget there has been a huge outcry against the perceived unfairness of the burden imposed on the poorer section of the population, leaving the better-off almost untouched, except for having to pay increased road tax on their 4x4s.

THE news from Brussels on our new fishing quotas is indeed welcome, the more so because of the economic situation.

I CAN’T say that I have any sympathy for my countrymen — if Fianna Fáil voters had not crossed over and abstained in the last election, Fine Gael would be in solo government.

AS Europe stands on the brink of disaster as a result of politicians being unable to come up with a solution that might avert calamity, might I offer an answer that is:

WHY is our national broadcaster screening violence on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, the holiest and most peaceful days in the year?

AS a believer (and recovering atheist), I am constantly bemused by the irrationalities/contradictions of my former comrades.

FROM January the Fine Gael/Labour coalition will attempt to impose a new household tax on us and will begin installing water meters in homes across the state.