Sir, - In response to Gerry Lewis (January 6th), I feel compelled to offer an interpretation of Ethel Crowley's letter (January 4th), to which he was objecting so vociferously.
Ms Crowley, it appears to me, is not bemoaning the fact that the Irish economy is finally beginning to reflect the EU average. Rather she is regretting the effect on the recipients of this newfound wealth. The more money we earn, the more we need, the less time we have. We are becoming greedy. Wealth is breeding greed and selfishness.
Economic integration with the rest of the world is leading to cultural and psychological integration. We are becoming European, as opposed to Irish. For some people this is sad. It is a matter of opinion. And we are all entitled to those. Ms Crowley regrets the loss of a supposedly innocent, friendly and caring Ireland. Who doesn't? - Yours, etc.,
Leonora McConville, Oakfield Road, Sligeach.