As a Catholic vehemently opposed to abortion, Cóir does not speak for me

RTÉ radio is to be commended for their investigative piece on the anti-Lisbon group Cóir last Sunday (September 6).

It was refreshing that commentators such as the respected Jesuit theologian Fr Edmond Grace and Michael Kelly of the Irish Catholic were given the opportunity to outline the attitudes of the mainstream Catholic movement on the Lisbon Treaty, and to roundly condemn the theories espoused by Cóir.

The incoherent interview given by a spokesperson for the group spoke volumes about its modus operandi, especially when he proceeded to misquote and misrepresent comments made by various respected and public figures, including Ms Justice Fidelma Macken, Archbishop Diarmuid Martin, and even Pope Benedict XVI.

Cóir has tried to portray itself as the single authority on abortion and all moral issues, and seems to think its extreme methods and rhetoric are the only ways to campaign on such issues. Not in my name.

As a Catholic, and as someone who is vehemently opposed to the introduction of abortion in any form, it was heartening to see the national broadcaster striking a blow for Catholics and pro-life campaigners across the country who are sickened by the spite, intolerance and paranoia of Cóir.

Barry Walsh

Brooklawn

Clontarf

Dublin 3