Letters / Insulting rant
In response to Philip Andrews letter The burden of voting (SN, 20/03/14), I must say I was shocked, disappointed and a little bit disgusted at such an insulting rant regarding my truthful statement in Hill’s illogical path (19/03/14).
My point about not wanting to criticise Stuart and saying that I do not have enough political knowledge about the history of Shetland was simply me being honest and making it clear that I did not intend to offend. Philip clearly does not have as much respect for others.
His letter was both insulting, demeaning and patronising. I thank Stuart Hill for responding with a clearer understanding of his stance (Here are the facts; SN, 20/03/14) and also thank Christine Donald for words of encouragement (Make up your mind; SN, 20/03/14) in making a decision (assuming that is how it was intended).
Philip however chose to respond as if I were an ignorant child who needed better parenting.
As a 24 year old adult who is studying each side of the independence argument, including reading the white paper, this couldn’t be further from the truth. I admitted that my historical knowledge of Shetlands politics is lacking, this admittance does not make me ignorant, simply honest.
Being undecided on which way to vote is not a reflection of educational background or parenting. It is because I am fully aware of the gravity of the decision which all voters are faced with and I am keen to make sure I vote the way I feel is right.
I fail to see how my honest views on this matter deserved such a personal attack from someone I don’t know.
Although I do agree with the message Philip is putting across about making informed decisions and the importance of doing so, I would very much appreciate an apology for the degrading and, ironically, uniformed comments made towards me (and by way of extension, my parents). No doubt I am on to plums with such hopes however.
I will be saying no more on the matter, as this is no longer a political discussion or debate. It has very quickly and unfairly become a personal attack, which I think Philip should be ashamed of.
Leigh-Ann McGinty
East Voe
Scalloway
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 600 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.