Sir, - The decision of the Dominican Order to pass on control of its schools to others has brought me a moment of sadness and regret, though I understand the inevitability of the action.
Having spent a lifetime in education as a student and teacher, I have happy memories of approximately 10 years spent in two Dominican schools in Dublin, one on the southside - Sion Hill, as a boarder - and the other on the northside - Eccles Street, as a member of the teaching staff.
The education provided in both was, in my view, broad, liberal and gentle. At that time the entry conditions for university were modest and attainable and those who had no such ambitions were assured that their equal if not more valuable gifts and talents would be fully developed - music, art, drama and sport were prominent in the curriculum. The motto was "Veritas" and there was considerable encouragement to pursue truth and value integrity.
To those who spent their lives in the service of these ideals I want to say "Thank you". You gave generations of young women a very good foundation for life. - Yours, etc.,
Helen Hennessy, Trabeg Lawn, Douglas, Cork.