Madam, - I write in support of the Government's chief archaeologist. Brian Duffy is a qualified archaeologist with almost 30 years' experience working in Irish archaeology. He was selected for the position because the Department officials in charge of his appointment regarded him as the most professionally competent to fill the position.
The Institute of Archaeologists of Ireland would submit that the professional competencies required of archaeologists are not reflected solely in academic and research qualification. The IAI's letter to the Department welcomed the appointment but sought clarification of the process by which a chief archaeologist is selected.
The IAI, while welcoming constructive debate, does not believe that comments and opinions reported recently are helpful and would decry the personal criticism that has occurred involving members of the profession.
The IAI would make a plea for professional cohesion and constructive debate, particularly at this time of unparalleled threat to our shared cultural heritage resource. - Yours, etc,
EOIN HALPIN, Chairman, Institute of Archaeologists of Ireland, Merrion Square, Dublin 4.
Madam, - It was very kind of the Minister for the Environment to explain that academic awards should not be the only or main criterion on which appointments such as that of Chief Archaeologist are made (December 8th).
For those of us working outside the rarefied atmosphere of Government Buildings, however, his remarks are somewhat confusing. He represents a Government which recently removed its chief scientific adviser on the basis that his postgraduate qualifications were inadequate, even though everybody agreed he had extensive and admired experience in the field.
As a lecturer himself, perhaps the Minister could take yet more time out of his busy schedule and explain to the ignorant among us: what are the necessary qualifications for the job of chief archaeologist? - Yours, etc,
Dr CATHERINE SWIFT, Save Viking Waterford Action Group, Ballinaguilkey, Co Carlow.