Trust in the system but not the party
Both sides' deliberations of the issue involved have merit and if it was being decided in another state, I think after I had listened to all angles, I would favour the automation of the voting system.
However, it is not as simple as that. A feeling of unease emanating from somewhere deep within urges me to think otherwise.
I do not trust the party which has taken it upon itself to introduce such a system.
Ignoring the past and focusing on the present, I am truly concerned about the state of our democracy.
Fergus Finlay's column ("If Ireland was in Africa, we'd send observers to help build democracy", Irish Examiner, February 17) clarified my thoughts.
The recent modifications to the Freedom of Information Act in tandem with the Government's now constant use of the guillotine device (where the government of the day curtails debate, as they did with the Finance Bill two weeks ago, in order to pass legislation through quickly) must set off warning bells to all concerned citizens.
For the time being anyway, I put my trust in pencil and paper.
Jim Jackman
16 Park Drive Court
Castleknock
Dublin 15
