Sir, - Reports that the Stormont talks between the parents' representatives and protesting residents regarding the dispute at the Holy Cross Primary School in Ardoyne had broken down should not surprise anyone.
Judging by the most obscene behaviour, which was witnessed worldwide, by some of the residents of the Glenbryn Estate, it is surprising that talks took place at all. I would, however, question the decision to engage in direct dialogue with the protesting residents, as this may be construed as conferring respectability and legitimacy on a vulgar and unruly mob.
All children, regardless of colour or creed, have an inalienable right to walk to school unmolested by sectarian bigots who appear to have little else to do other than devise more disgusting ways of showing their disapproval at these little girls walking to school. Behaviour which would be regarded as shameful by any civilised society is regarded as a badge of honour by this lunatic fringe of loyalism. - Yours, etc.,
Tom Cooper, Knocklyon, Dublin 16.