Sir, - I would like to agree with the Rev Robert MacCarthy, Dean of St. Patrick's (August 10th) on the subject of preparation in primary school for First Holy Communion and Confirmation.
Although I have gone along with the "never-did-them any-harm-sure-it's-part-of- our-culture" way of dealing with the phenomenon, in reality I have always thought that these should be left, as options, until second level where choices are a normal part of the timetable.
And if the numbers should fall to single figures as they have with classics, so be it. Times change. The prevailing situation where the primary school system, in effect, makes parents (who do not want their children to stand out as different) go along with something they do not believe in is highly questionable.
Is it not time for a break between church and state? As for dismissing the principal in Dunboyne, it seems to be a very extreme reaction, especially when this is so rarely done - even in cases that appear worse. - Yours, etc.,
E.M. QUILL,
Bray,
Co Wicklow