We are finally getting the just society that Jesus wanted

Some people claim that we are now living in a post-Christian era, citing the example of the moving of the living nativity scene from Dublin’s Mansion House to St Stephen’s Green as recent evidence.

What is fast disappearing, however, is a so-called Christian era in which the Catholic Church betrayed the values ​​enshrined in Jesus’ gospel while promoting its own interests and power in Irish society.

What is emerging is a greater sense and thirst than ever for a more just society, where communities take charge of their own destiny and reject the unjust status quo.

It’s ironic, but we’re following in the footsteps of Jesus, who spent his life proclaiming such a society. Christmas becomes what it should be – the celebration of the creation of a just and loving society.

Brendan Butler, Homefarm Road, Dublin 9

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Who will listen to the nationalist view of the protocol?

Leo Varadkar says he will “listen to unionists” about concerns about the protocol. Big. We have heard their concerns loud and clear and know that both the Conservative Party and the British Labor Party are with them.

Is there a chance the Taoiseach will hear nationalistic concerns about the protocol? Those who formed part of the majority did not support Brexit up there.

In an effort to stem any rise in nationalism or republicanism, the Irish government appears to be resisting the ‘protection’ of the unions, a group that says very loudly what they want.

Who speaks for nationalists when Sinn Féin, from a Dublin perspective, is not?​

John Cuffe, Dunboyne, Co. Meath

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Poverty should always be an issue, not just at Christmas

Her editorial (“Poverty Young and Old Need the Goodwill of the Nation,” December 21) mentions that Taoiseach Leo Varadkar has promised to make child poverty a priority of his new term.

I would suggest that we try to celebrate Christmas every day by focusing on the problem of poverty in general, as it should be at the top of our list at any moment, not just at Christmas.

Leo Gormley, Dundalk, Co Louth

We wish Ronan Collins all the best in his future projects

I’d like to wish Ronan Collins the best in his future projects after he hung up his mic today.

For almost 40 years I sent all sorts of requests to the man, and I really can’t remember him ever failing me on that score.

In the words of the late great John Prine, keep ticking Ronan.

Tom Gilsenan, Beaumont, Dublin 9

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Thank you for the 38 years of tunes and memories

Far too often our radio stations, who may have spent decades educating, informing, entertaining, and teasing us, fail to hear our reflected appreciation and heartfelt thanks, since they have likely departed for their heavenly studios when we are all theirs well-deserved summons awards.

So let’s hear it now for Ronan Collins, who is leaving his radio show on RTE Radio 1 today after 38 years.

Thanks for the tunes, Ronan.

Michael Gannon, St Thomas Square, Kilkenny

The writing materials – why the letter page is good for the soul

May I agree with Aidan Hampson (“Letters to the Editor capture the public mood at its roughest” Irish IndependentDecember 22) in his praise of the Irish Independent letters page?

This letter writer has found “speaking your mind,” as Aidan puts it, cathartic for 10 years, for which I am grateful. I quote: “More than kisses, letters mix souls.”

Brian McDevitt, Glenties, Co Donegal

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World Cup coin toss not as exciting as penalty shootout

AidAn Hampson (“Letters to the editor capture the public mood at its roughest” and Leo Gormley (“To fix football’s greatest game on penalties is too cruel)”, both wrote interesting letters on December 22.

Aldan’s suggestion of a 1905 book of letters to the editor would make fascinating reading, just as Leo’s idea of ​​deciding a World Cup final with a coin toss isn’t as exciting as watching two teams go to penalties.

Finally to all Irish Independent Readers and collaborators, Merry Christmas.

Dominic Shelmerdine, London