Readers Blog: Nothing will change, so just enjoy Ireland’s good points
I am writing with regards to the article, ‘Who judges the judges?’ (Irish Examiner, January 10, 2018) written by Michael Clifford.
Back in 2003, I appeared as a social worker witness in a care-and-protection proceeding. I was taken aback by this judge’s comments, as I stood in the witness stand. This judge asked me if I was a Christian.
As a proud New Zealander of Polynesian heritage, I was embarrassed and furious by this ludicrous question, by someone who should have acted accordingly to his status and station.
Nonetheless, the latest issue about non-accountability and non-access to the judicial process, which this article raised, was touched on by some rugby pundits, with regards to foreigners playing for the Irish rugby team, under Joe Schmidt.
Well, what do they now say about that New Zealander, Bundee Aki? Is Aki in the same boat as Joe Schmidt, as they are both New Zealanders?
The organs of the state must reflect the values expected by the decent, hard-working people of the Republic.
Our humanity means we will always make mistakes, but the latest litany of garda scandals, healthcare failures, and the selling of mortgages to vulture funds is dispiriting. Just waking up each day to go to work, to care for elderly parents, and my elderly neighbours, and to put decent food on the table is hard enough.
Nothing will change in the foreseeable future, so, like myself, enjoy the Republic for all its good points, as these are many, like the hurling, rugby, puc fada, and especially the music.
