DIARMUID DE FAOITE,
Sir, - Apparently the lark in the Park on Tuesday night was held at the taxpayers' expense. What is the justification for this extravagance, especially when the State's coffers are said to be half empty? The whole performance was an exercise in unbridled irrationality.
What did the Irish soccer team achieve? Just two things. They lengthened the odds on scoring a goal from a penalty to three out of seven and they succeeded in snatching defeat from the jaws of victory! Surely these questionable achievements don't justify tens of thousands of people going hysterical in the Phoenix Park. A sense of balance is called for.
Another point. Why is the epithet "star" applied with monotonous frequency to under-achievers? If it is ever used, it should, I suggest, be applied to medics who are for ever snatching life from the jaws of death. I never hear anyone referring to cardiologists or neuro-surgeons as "stars". These are people who save countless lives every day of the week. - Yours, etc.,
M.A. FARRAGHER, Terenure, Dublin 6W.
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A chara, -For the past few weeks I have been reading and hearing about how proud the Irish people are of their footballers. Doubtless many of these "fans" were cheering for Brazil against England.
Forgive my cynicism, but in weeks the majority of these Irish football fans will be back supporting British leagues once again, and from their bar stools attempting to belittle people like myself who follow the National League of Ireland.
Only in Ireland. - Is mise,
DIARMUID DE FAOITE, Glenwood, Dundalk, Co Louth.
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Sir, - I was privileged to attend our World Cup game in Seoul, South Korea and offer the following observations on the magnificent trip it turned out to be. The genuine warmth and friendliness of the Korean people was both extraordinary and touching. The sense of pride which they have in their capital city, from which Dublin could learn much about infrastructure, cleanliness and how to present world-class sporting stadiums.
Off the field, the Irish players were warm and embracing of the fans and displayed unbelievable patience in response to the endless requests for photographs and autographs. They were also great fun!
Finally, the Irish army of fans which I met were, once again, a pleasure to be with and an honour to be part of. Roll on Germany 2006. - Yours, etc.,
EUGENE McMAHON, Howth Road, Killester, Dublin 5.
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Sir, - Just a hint to the organisers of the next football fest: paper shirts. - Yours, etc.,
MICHAEL MAHONY, Ballyhaunis, Co Mayo.