When arguing for or against anything proposed by the establishment in Ireland this past 20 years, one feels like King Canute charging the waves.

How come the little known Dr Reilly can come out of nowhere to become Ireland’s Minister for Health?

Instead of demanding that TDs and senators be permitted to retain the whip and vote ‘according to conscience’, we should demand that they vote according to best available medical knowledge or practice, and according to what is right.

WHAT kind of person would be suitable for the office of President? Someone who has an inalienable regard for the Constitution; with a love for the Irish people and their culture; who can represent the Irish people with diplomacy and dignity; with compassion, humility and the ability to listen.

I AM absolutely gutted for the woman who had to witness 50 friends of Danny Foley, who was convicted of sexually assaulting her, shake his hand and hug him in court while he was awaiting sentencing in Tralee Circuit Criminal Court (Irish Examiner, December 17).