Munster Express Online

Dear Sir,

Labour Party Leader, Eamonn Gilmore is sitting on the fence adopting populist stances, dodging questions and providing little detail of his party’s policies. Labour is opposed to the introduction of property or water charges. The party says it would abolish property reliefs but the return of the charges is on the cards to broaden the tax base. On public sector pay, Labour called on the government to negotiate with the unions but, when the Croke Park deal was agreed, they refused to back it.

On health service funding, Labour advocates Universal Health Insurance. After ten years they still can’t say how it will be implemented and how much it will cost. On crime, Labour wants more recruits for the Gardai but fails to say how much it will cost. The party also accuses the government of failing on gangland crime, yet it opposes the Criminal Justice Bill. On jobs, Labour says jobs are top priority and wants a jobs fund. However, Labour needs to provide more details on precise goals rather than just general platitudes. The government has already brought in a PRSI tax break for employers.

Yours, etc

Seamus Dunphy,

30, Tramore Heights, Tramore

Fianna Fail, The Republican Party