Sir, – With all the news about economic distress, war in Europe, climate change and the rest of the political turmoil worldwide that besets us daily, how wonderful to read about Jim and Frank Flanagan and how over the years they continue to light up the lives of those around the Phoenix Park in Dublin (“Phoenix Park lamplighters keep flame alight for dying tradition”, News, October 4th).
Reading Dominique Farrell’s piece should bring a glow to all our hearts.
Let’s hope that the younger members of the Flanagan family are, as you report, able to continue this noble and important profession, and furthermore that Putin cannot extinguish a long and magnificent family tradition, of which Dubliners, particularly, can be both grateful and proud. – Yours, etc,
ALASTAIR CONAN,
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Coulsdon, UK.
Sir, – Your article reminded me of my Donegal Granny, who used to advise that getting “up with the lamplighters” in the morning was good for us, which is why she had us all awake for 6am when we stayed with her.
Thanks for the reminder. – Yours, etc,
BRÍD MILLER,
Roscommon,
Co Roscommon.
Sir, – Your article about lamplighters brought back memories of my late father. He inherited his own father’s job with Pembroke Town Council just prior to its absorption into Dublin Corporation.
He kept us amused for years with tales of his wanderings around the dark streets of a bygone age, bringing light to the citizens.
One story he liked to tell was when a new man on the job was brought down to the Liffey at Hanover Quay. His tutor pointed out a lighthouse on the other side of the river and told him that was one of his lamps. Unable to find a boatman to ferry him over, the tyro lamplighter untied a rowing boat moored nearby and was about to commence his voyage until called back. My Dad also said that the long lighting pole he carried was a great man for putting manners on aggressive dogs. The sight of a quick jet of flame would deter them. – Yours, etc,
A JONES,
Mullagh,
Co Cavan.