Fine Gael and the presidency

A “thundering disgrace”

Sir, – Stephen Collins in “President Higgins has set a dangerous precedent” (Opinion & Analysis, June 23rd) mentions that in 1976 Paddy Donegan, then minister for defence, “had to resign from the cabinet” over his remarks about President Cearbhall Ó Dálaigh in October.

This is incorrect.

In fact, taoiseach Liam Cosgrave retained Donegan as minister. He demoted him in December in a cabinet reshuffle and in February 1977 he was appointed minister for fisheries. – Yours, etc,

VINCENT McGLOUGHLIN,

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Greystones,

Co Wicklow.

Sir, – Paddy Donegan did not resign – his resignation was rejected by taoiseach Liam Cosgrave.

In fact, it was Cearbhall Ó Dálaigh who resigned the presidency following the incident. – Yours, etc,

GARY BARRETT,

Loughglynn,

Co Roscommon.