Sir, – I want to commend Justine McCarthy for her decision to join the protests against Donald Trump’s visit to Doonbeg next weekend (“See you in Doonbeg? I’ll be there with my placard to welcome Trump”, September 4th). It takes a certain resolve to stand against a tide of local goodwill, however commercially motivated that goodwill might be.
I have little time for those vox-popped Doonbeg locals delighted to roll out the red carpet. Their enthusiasm probably has little to do with genuine regard for the man and everything to do with the money his golf course brings in to the area.
That is not hospitality – it is opportunism dressed up as welcome. Character does matter, and a céad míle fáilte should mean something more than a céad míle euro.
The current geopolitical turmoil, largely the doing of this administration, should rally Irish people to leave the United States – and the rest of the world – in no doubt about how poorly it is regarded here. I hope many others follow McCarthy’s lead. – Yours, etc,
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CHRIS GARVEY
Glasnevin,
Dublin.
Sir, – Has Justine McCarthy been to Doonbeg? Has she any empathy towards the people there? Clearly not. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if she allowed the people of the area and its visitors enjoy the wonderful sporting event that is being held in such a beautiful place next weekend?
The event is being attended by the democratically elected president of the United States. Clearly, not all Americans agree with McCarthy’s views. Not all Irish people agree with McCarthy either.
If you do come to Doonbeg next weekend, could you please leave the poster at home. – Yours, etc,
GERALDINE GREGAN
Clarecastle,
Co Clare.
