It’s time to get real, professor
The article points out that Prof Binchy believes that the lack of choice in this matter is inconsistent with a person’s human rights, including freedom of expression, autonomy from the state, privacy and liberty.
Yet prior to the introduction of divorce in 1995 (which Prof Binchy opposed), we heard nothing from him about those who were trapped in dreadful, sometimes violent, marriages.
We heard nothing from him of their human rights, including freedom of expression, autonomy from the state, privacy and liberty.
Prof Binchy goes on to make a largely academic argument in which he highlights discrepancies between the legal definition of marriage and the commitment expressed by spouses at the time of marriage.
Is he seriously suggesting that the only way to correct what he sees as legal discrepancies is to have our young sons and daughters enter into legally binding contracts never to divorce?
As in the past, he makes ridiculous and extreme suggestions when speaking on this subject.
Nowhere in his suggestion does one find any sense of reason, reality or balance. He apparently sees no need for qualification.
He doesn’t suggest, for example, that a couple who are already happily married over a number of years might make such a commitment on the basis of confidence in their union.
Neither does he suggest that a couple achieve a certain age before entering into such a commitment, a commitment that demands a high level of maturity and a significant ability to see well into their future.
It’s high time that Prof Binchy came out of his academic haven and acquired a taste of the real world. It’s also time that he and like-minded individuals accept the fact that divorce is a reality in this state.
When marriages break down lots of people get hurt. It is not just about the couple concerned; it can effect their children, their friends and extended families.
Lots of friendships and acquaintances are often the by-product of one marriage. When that marriage ends it can have a knock-on effect on many of these relationships. There is a lot of pain out there, but we must never say ‘never.’
I respectfully suggest that Prof Binchy & Co use their expertise and their resources (much of which is paid for through our taxation) to improve the lives of our citizens taking into account the reality of divorce, and to stop using clever academic argument as a weapon with which to force people back in time. Be responsible.
Ken Lynch
79 Templeacre Avenue
Gurranebraher
Cork
