Kudos and thanks to a man who raises us up in so many ways
How wonderful to read the legendary Barry Jones and his readings and insights into past and current politics (“Scientist still has some regrets,” April 5). His life was spent in enjoyable studies and self-improvement with responsible and knowledgeable guidance from politicians on many levels. While highlighting the essence of Trump’s tenure with one of Trump’s own statements – “Empathy means ‘weakness'” – Jones remains relevant even at 93. Barry, you will remain in our hearts for a long time. Janice Creenaune, Austinmer
He was a pervasive character; Even my grandmother would calmly and unknowingly call me “Barry.” In his early guise of fame as a quiz genius, he displayed his endless knowledge in a clear, down-to-earth and friendly manner, always remaining above commercial theatrics, which later provided a solid platform for a career in public service. Well done Barry. I wish my grandmother could have passed on more of your intelligence and success to me. Brian Jones, Leura
The article about Barry Jones brought back childhood memories of following him faithfully and his eight-year dominance. Pick a Box. Bob Hawke’s career in federal politics, where he was science minister, his advocacy on a wide range of human rights issues and his early recognition of the importance of climate change, enhanced his profile as a Labor legend. Victa’s response when she won the lawnmower Pick a Box Even after all these years it remained fixed in my mind: “In the morning – mow the lawn”. What a man, what a mind. Bob Nicoll, Hat Head
A country app
Medicine is one of the most difficult and at the same time most popular faculties to get into at university. Society can use this carrot to encourage doctors to provide services in regional Australia (“Years-long wait for 15-minute procedure,” April 5). Medical candidates may be informed that they will be required to serve three years in the country at some point during their careers. Those who refuse to do so may have their candidacies postponed. By doing this, we will get the determined candidates our country needs. There will then be a constant flow of practitioners, as those who have completed their three years will be replaced by those taking new positions. This will also concern specialists, so that regional centers will not only accept beginning practitioners. Teachers had to serve the country for three years after graduation. Ray Armstrong, Tweed Heads South
crisis management
Parnell Palme McGuinness has brilliantly managed to decode Albo’s address to the nation (“Crisis, prime time for Albonomics,” April 5). But the simple message I got was that we should all grab a Bex, lie down, stay calm and carry on. I braced for an announcement from the Prime Minister for the arrival of a new pandemic, Trump’s official diagnoses of schizophrenia and his refusal to hand over the nuclear button, or even an apocalypse like the diggers heading to Iran, and I was genuinely relieved that there was a bit more politics involved in the lead-up to next month’s “reform” budget. Bruce Hall, Avalon
Parnell Palme McGuinness parrots the Liberal Party with its policy-agnostic, clichéd put-downs; From “never waste a good crisis, comrade” to his criticism of government support for vital industry and our future renewable energy infrastructure. While all of these give the Coalition a passing grade; Even Scotty just “missed the opportunity.” This country gave Neoliberalism the majority of the 21st century to prove its worth and it has clearly failed due to lazy, self-serving political inertia. Howard/Costello’s CGT and negative gears are the root causes of our housing problem, the hypocritical, serious Abbott/Hockey budget, a decade of climate change indifference with no support for exploring photovoltaic batteries or a renewable industry, the failure to secure local LPG supplies (unlike the Labor WA government), the failure to support local refineries or adequate oil reserves, the ridiculous financial and political support for the doomed fossil fuel industry and the emasculation of the public service for decades. Knowledge is thrown aside and replaced by consultancy. The principles of neoliberalism (letting the market dictate and self-regulate, deregulating and reducing government spending) have failed. It has given us declining competition and bilateral relations, outlandish corporate profits, eye-watering executive salaries, direct debit (dole sticks), rudderless government, a politicized civil service, massive fiscal inequality and a country that is not resilient. And Parnell, if there is a time for change and reset, it is in a crisis, but that could have happened in 2019. Rowan Godwin, Rozelle
Women move the line
Licia Heath (“If women are removed from public life, we all suffer”, April 5) warns of the risk of women being excluded from public life. This is not a new problem. Since time immemorial, women have had to deal with social and religious systems designed to keep them “in their place.” It traces back to the story of Adam and Eve, where the evil temptress was responsible for driving people out of the Garden of Eden, to the day when the graduates of a faith-based private school fight tooth and nail to prevent girls from attending their old school. But mostly thanks to brave women (and men) fighting against society’s prejudices, times have changed and perhaps we have a better outlook on life now that we live in Australia. Maybe it’s also where the person lives. In our region, federal and state lawmakers are both powerful and admired women; We have good co-educational schools (some private) and many sports and social activities where boys and girls are given equal encouragement. So don’t despair, Licia, we are better off than our current ancestors. As long as we all understand that cooperation is better than conflict, we must continue to improve and make the world a better place. Nola Tucker, Kiama
- To send a letter Messenger of the SunEmail letters@smh.com.au. click Here For tips on how to send letters.
- The opinion newsletter is a weekly package of opinions that will challenge, defend and inform. Sign up here.
