We are anything but a forgotten generation

Sir, – Being of the same broad demographic as Rory J Whelan, 'those of us in our 40s and 50s', I see the point he makes, but would respectfully disagree ('Those in their 40s and 50s are the forgotten generation when it comes to the budget,' Letters, September 4th). True, my children never got free childcare or free school books. And I was of an age that saw my property investments, which looked completely reliable, hammered as the Celtic Tiger imploded. And so, still paying a mortgage, I am not wonderfully placed to invest massively in a new state savings scheme. But I would say that I, and perhaps your correspondent also, benefited massively from an excellent educational system in Ireland. Previous generations of taxpayers funded it. Many of them grew up before free education was provided, so funding what they had lacked. We drive on better roads than our parents did, courtesy of their tax payments. While indeed I may see 'no reduction' in the university fees I'm paying, they are low by many international standards and the education and facilities are superb. The admittedly astronomical taxes I pay provide a quality of life matched in few places. And a time may come when, in medical care or other services, I'll see the benefits of my tax payments. It is perhaps in the nature of life not to focus on those who are able to manage their affairs and provide for themselves. I'm happy to be so classified and for as long as possible. Also, to a greater extent than in most other countries, I am reassured that if and when I need it, imperfect but decent support will be there. I count myself lucky to be one of those contributing and hope that our generation, like those before, will ultimately leave a slightly better country to our descendants. – Yours, etc, BRIAN O'BRIEN, Kinsale, Co Cork.