Madam, – I refer to Eamon Ryan’s proposal that Opposition leaders and President Mary McAleese should be asked to represent Ireland abroad on St Patrick’s Day in light of the “unique circumstances” (Front page, January 13th).
It would be more appropriate if “no one” attended these events in light of the “unique circumstances” surrounding our current fiscal position and the immense cost to the taxpayer of sending such individuals abroad. It would also send a clear message to our EU partners that we are taking our present financial situation seriously. – Yours, etc,