A Chara, Last Saturday I completed my third AfrI walk from Delphi to Louisburgh. I therefore feel entitled to comment on the unpalatable commercial enterprise planned for this weekend in Millstreet.
The young people who have bought tickets for this cannot be held to blame since it is natural to attend a concert. But the actions of the organisers, bankrollers and participating acts are reprehensible. Has Van Morrison's God taken a distinct skew if he can countenance the dark end of famine with the bright side of a coin? Will Altan play the Relapsing Reel, the Hungry Hornpipe and the Scurvy Slip jig?
If President Robinson lights a candle in circumstances both second rate and smarmy then it is a symbol too far - and will end her presidency with an appalling insult to the many thinking people who voted for her.
Finally, I hope the entire "event" is as much a success as past and present attempts at identifying, alleviating and eliminating famine have been. - Le meas,
Doohima,
Ballina,
Co. Mayo.