Madam, - As an Irish citizen who appreciates the historic special relationship, both emotional and economic, between this country and the US, and also cherishes my long personal connections and associations with valued friends and family in America, I am saddened but not surprised at the continuing level of anti-Americanism expressed as a result of the Iraq war.
Contrary to Eileen Boyle's fear (June 10th) I strongly feel that conditional dependence between friendly nations is unhealthy. Furthermore, freedom of speech is central to our respective democracies and is apparently enshrined in both our countries constitutions.
From my experience, intelligent mature Americans welcome and respect those who have the courage and right to question and debate mutual concerns, including US foreign policy, especially at this time of great international change and uncertainty. - Yours, etc.,
PETER GAUGHAN, Monkstown, Co Dublin.