Sir, - Bertie Aherne has confirmed that the Irish Republic's claim to the six Northern counties has been removed from the Irish constitution. Having known it would happen, I did not expect the anger I now feel.
How is it possible for an Irish Government to surrender its legitimate claim as part of a British compromise? The British would never surrender sovereignty of any part of England. The argument that Irish unity is historically inexorable on the grounds of a demographic shift lacks the moral substance one would expect from a nation built on suffering and a religious foundation.
Has the backbone of the Celtic Tiger crumbled as a result of moral osteoporosis? Irish men and women have fought, suffered and died for the cause of a united Ireland. Does no-one care for fundamentals any more? I am ashamed. - Yours, etc., Moya St Leger,
Yarrel Mansions, Queens Club Gardens, London W4.