Sir, - No matter how heroic the motives of Adi Roche, the media in Ireland will tear her apart with relish over the next few weeks. A life, dedicated to bringing comfort and dignity to children and families trapped in a most appalling situation is an affront to the cynics who dominate the Irish media and political life.
Adi Roche can never undo the appalling tragedy of Chernobyl, but she and her co-workers have done more than anyone else to relieve the sufferings of these children, simply by presenting to the Irish people images whose power is overwhelming and irresistible.
These same images of caring arms embracing damaged bodies, the face of compassion looking into the face of suffering, are incomprehensible to the many who see the present presidential campaign as an opportunity to belittle and ridicule the idealism of the Adi Roches of Irish society.
Our society may need a president who exudes idealism, hope and love, but there are elements in it which are totally unconcerned with these values. Hopefully, the Irish people will rise above withering cynicism and negativity and elect a President who reflects the positive values shared by so many in this country. - Yours, etc.,
Waterfall, Co Cork.