RUTH GILL,
Madam, - In his Irishman's Diary of October 22nd, Kevin Myers tells of visiting Northern Ireland and making a trip along the northern coast.
We made a similar trip last April. We walked on Castlerock Strand, which was almost deserted, with a strong wind blowing the sand streamer-fashion in a westerly direction. We visited Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge, where we saw many visitors from different parts of the world. We went to the Giant's Causeway in the evening. It had been a wet day, it was getting late but we got in for nothing.
I found the place eerily wonderful. There were only two other people there besides ourselves. Because of the time of day, the strangely shaped rocks were sharply silhouetted against the silver-grey sea. Banks of primroses lined the Shepherd's Steps and a robin's song echoed warmly against the cliffs. It was magic. When we returned, we actually appreciated being left alone to have a quiet drink in the hotel beside the car park.
Yes, we noticed the flags flying, most of them in tatters. It got to the stage where we'd look up and remark, "This must be a mainly nationalist area," or, "This must be a mainly loyalist area." As for the rock in the middle of the Mourne Mountains painted red, white and blue. . !
Northern Ireland is like someone who has been caring for a sick relative. There are signs of a slow recovery, the helpers have gone home and now the carer is exhausted. I just hope they don't follow our example down here and ruin what they have, which is something we all long for: unspoilt, accessible countryside. - Yours etc.,
RUTH GILL,
Kilcormac,
Co Offaly.
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Madam, - Kevin Myers is correct in his observations on tourism in North Antrim. While the locals may seem to welcome tourists, it appears to be on their own terms and at their convenience. On a visit to the Glens of Antrim via Ballymena on a Sunday, it was said to me that not only could I not get a cup of tea in that town on a Sunday, but that it would not be possible to use a toilet. It appears that a lot of work needs to be done to make the place more attractive. - Yours, etc.,
BRENDAN McMAHON,
Elmwood,
Naas,
Co Kildare