Ring fort destroyed - A breach of trust

THOSE of us concerned with the practicalities of life; making a living, realising the potential of an asset or making the best use of our time sometimes become so focussed on that narrow challenge that we lose a sense of perspective, history and responsibility.

Whoever destroyed an ancient ring fort on a Cork farm in recent days has crossed that line and has destroyed part of the country’s heritage that was not theirs to destroy.

Though not by any means an isolated example of our too often destructive attitude towards our environment, built or otherwise, this premeditated and illegal vandalism is a manifestation of greed and deep ignorance.

Our justice system must flex its muscles in this instance and show that society will not tolerate this kind of willful destruction. If a person is convicted of this crime substantial fines must be imposed and collected. It would be outrageous too if the landowner continued to enjoy farm subsidies.

We all hold the world around us in trust and this act was a terrible breach of that trust.