Sir, - Our attention has been drawn to a disturbing article in your newspaper, written by Kevin Myers (An Irishman's Diary, April 2nd). We categorically reject the perception which your journalist projects that the Island of Ireland Peace Park is neglected and in disarray.
It is true that wreaths of natural flowers wither in a short time. It is also true that artificial wreaths soon lose their new appearance when exposed to the weather. But to suggest that the community takes no notice and pays no attention to the Peace Park is an injustice to the people of this small community which we cannot allow to go unanswered. The fact is that a person from this office inspects the park on a regular basis, as often as three days each week, and if necessary deals with matters needing attention. Others from within the community, associated with the construction of the tower, are also concerned visitors to the park which is quite near our office on the edge of our small town.
The question arises of when wreaths should be removed, taking into consideration that those who laid them in almost every case travelled long distances and their feelings must always be considered. Our judgement is that when a wreath of natural flowers withers and is no longer a wreath it should be removed and when a wreath of artificial flowers becomes soiled it too should be removed. That is the policy of this council, which is the unofficial caretaker of the park.
It is to be acknowledged that storms and strong wind blow wreaths and flowers from where they are placed but this is immediately put right after the storm settles.
The undersigned have been working closely with Mr Glen Barr and Mr Paddy Harte and members of the Journey of Reconciliation Trust since they first arrived in Messines to speak with us about their plans to build a Peace Park and Round Tower. We listened carefully to what they had to say and we took them to what we considered the most suitable location. They immediately agreed that the site was what they were looking for.
As burgomaster and town clerk we have always been at the disposal of the trust. We believe this to be part of our duty. We helped negotiate during the purchase, we were at hand to offer technical advice and guidance in having the land rezoned and helping to avoid unnecessary delay with the planning application.
A great bond of friendship has developed between the people of Messines and the people of Ireland through the Irish from both communities, who came here to build the tower, especially the young people, and we are saddened that a journalist should in any way create the impression that the people in this community do not value the significance and historical importance of the Peace Park. Through your paper we like to assure the people of Ireland that the park will not be neglected. We do not undervalue the skill used to have the President of Ireland and Queen Elizabeth II join the King and Queen of Belgium on the day of the official opening, when history was made. Never before in the 80 years since the end of the first World War have three heads of state stood together on the Western Front.
Finally, Mr Barr and Mr Harte, with the project director and the project manager, visited Messines during the last weekend in February and had meetings with us and others abut the further development of the peace park. Far from being neglected the project is very much alive and is a credit to everyone associated with it.
We would like if you would publish this letter and kindly give the same prominence to it as given to the article written by Mr Myers. Hopefully he will visit Messines soon when we will accord him a friendly welcome. As you say in Gaelic, he will receive a "cead mile failte". - Yours, etc.,
P. Florissccoone, The Town Clerk, J. Liefooghe, The Burgomaster, Stad Mesen, Belgium.