Dear Editor,
Reading the letter in the SN, May 15, about the writer’s experience at the Licence office on Smyth Street, brought back many uncomfortable memories to me (‘Long lines, poor organization… at Licence Office on Smyth Street’). The letter was very well written. It gives a factual account of what goes on at the Licence Revenue Office. I have personally endured over the years so many of the tortuous hours described, including being trapped in that back building when a blackout occurred, shutting down the entire system, AC units and all!
My ‘Nightmare on Smyth Street’ is now something of the past. I have been well served in the new GRA facility on Camp Street.
One disappointing feature of the letter was that the name of the writer was not published. I am sure the writer had his/her reasons, economic, political, whatever. We now live in a democratic nation. We spent years struggling for democracy. Sadly, sometimes to many, democracy is seen as building a monument.
Democracy must be something we live and practise at all levels. Being able to express our opinions and feelings on issues, standing up for principles in public, must become part of our daily lives. The letter column is a method offered to us to do so. This may mean that we have to be prepared to ‘take our licks,’ as they say.
Thank God that there are still those among us who are prepared to walk that path.
Yours faithfully,
Fr Keith Hardless
