Letter to the Editor

Letter to the Editor

 

Dear Editor,

 

Bertie Ahern has once again mooted the idea of an honours system for Ireland.  He draws a comparision between Ireland the UK when it comes to honouring people.  

 

It should be remembered that the UK is a Constitutional Monarchy whereas we are proud Republics.  The UK allows the Queen to honour her subjects and as a Republic we have such system here in Ireland.  

 

Nor should there be.

 

There are two very good reasons for this.  One is that outstanding individuals in Irish society have always been recognised by their fellow citizens, whether they are Padraig Harrington or the Westport Utd FAI Champions.  The victory or achievement or good deed is its own reward and we Irish never forget a legendry performance.

 

Secondly how many 'outstanding' citizens would we have had to strip of their honours had we such a system here?  Certainly Charles J Haughey would have had to hand back any award Bertie may have given him. 

 

Bertie Ahern should remember that in the UK Lester Piggott lost his knighthood for tax evasion.  Need I say more?

 

Yours sincerely

 

Keith Martin

Councillor

33 Pairc na Coille

Westport

Mayo

086 0691182