Travelling people are victimised

Sep 4 2009

Dear Mr or Mrs Anonymous (Post, August 14),

Thank you for the usual patronising attitude which is meted out to anyone who dares to voice an alternative opinion in 21st century Britain.

First of all, I must inform you that your reply regarding the subject of travellers is based on facts which you could not have possibly have proven, and incidentally, are wrong.

I have indeed had experience with travellers on personal terms, business terms and in terms of having them in my locality.

I have had ample experience of travellers, and the issues associated with them. As a business person yourself, I find it astonishing that you do not have more sympathy with travellers.

After all, a traveller is fundamentally a travelling tradesperson, living alternatively, and looking to make a living.

I am well aware that the travelling community is not perfect in any way.

Modern social problems afflict them like any other sections of society.

However, the evidence I have found differs from your experience fairly markedly. I agree with you that many appalling problems exist, i.e. rubbish and sanitary issues, but in my opinion, they receive overwhelming media attention.

I find it interesting that you ignored the basis of my letter. The right to an alternative lifestyle. Your list of problems is no justification to dismiss an entire way of life. Problems can be prevented, discussed, negotiated, etc.

Endlessly repeated is that mantra that Britain is a ‘liberal democracy’.

To travellers, and many others in society, this concept is no longer worth two rolls of toilet paper. Where is the democratic right to travel without harassment, to be accepted as part of the community, as was the case for many years, and to live free of victimisation? This does not exist.

Kieran MacManus

George Street

Ayr