Stand up to extremists

OVER recent years there is a perception that the West should fear the extremists, that our democracies could not stand up to their ire and that we should avoid upsetting them, be they religious or political.

This is for fear they will wreak a terrible vengeance on us if provoked.

The truth is that western democracies do not relish the thought of confrontation, but neither will they allow religious or political extremists to impose their will on others.

Just over 60 years ago the western democracies stood up to the tyranny of Nazi Germany and imperial Japan. Millions gave their lives on the battlefields and millions more endured terrible hardship to ensure such extremism would not triumph.

The lesson is as true today as it was then and those extremists who seek to intimidate the west with their hatred and violence should remember that.

Keith Martin

Golf Course Road

Westport

Co Mayo