MEP fails to recognise political realities

I FOUND Kathy Sinnott’s letter (February 28) criticising Education Minister Batt O’Keeffe very perplexing.

She said the minister’s argument is “circular” because he is following his department’s policies. That is how government works. Departments have policies to achieve goals and meet budgets. These policies are what the Government was elected on.

Please do not insult the electorate. As an independent MEP with no experience in local or national politics, maybe the concept of policies eludes Ms Sinnott.

Maybe she fails to appreciate that not every politician has the luxury of jumping on every populist soapbox. Not every politician can score cheap points by running with various heart-twanging topics.

“Find the money somewhere” is trite, vague and utterly useless in helping the situation. Does she imagine the minister wants the cuts? Does she think the Government takes joy in making cuts?

We need solutions right now. Emotions — which we all have — are not going to solve this problem.

Susan O’Neill

Glenrichmond

Glanmire

Co Cork