A chara, – Justine’s McCarthy’s article describes our climate so well (Opinion & Analysis, August 30th). The results of climate change, with wetter summers and warmer winters, have come upon us like a thief in the night, even after warnings and predictions
However, we Irish seem to have a unique acceptance of all types of weather, be it summer or winter. In fact, the weather can be our main topic for casual conversation, as has been noted by many who visit our country.
I recall many rainy summer family holidays in the west of Ireland with more rain than sun. Despite that, I so often hear my now adult family speak of the great times they enjoyed on these holidays – fishing while getting drenched with unrelenting rain or at times sitting on a beach wearing woollen jumpers waiting for the sun to shine.
So, for one family, the memories linger on, despite the fact that they now enjoy sunny climes in faraway places. – Yours, etc,
MARY RIGNEY,
Dublin 18.
A chara, – The past few days, at least in my neck of the woods, have been glorious.
I agree that the weather hasn’t been great, but I reread my diary for August to check my report of daily activities and weather comments.
Typical entries were “sunny spells, showers, breezy”, “wet start, cleared later, quite warm”. There was not one single day where I refrained from some planned outdoor activity, whether golf, tennis, gardening or walking. Overall, a typical Irish summer and far preferable to what has been reported from most of southern Europe. – Is mise,
MURT Ó SÉAGHDHA,
Dundalk,
Co Louth.
A chara, – I was a teacher in Zimbabwe for six years in the 1990s and my students often asked me the question, what did I miss most about my home in Ireland? My answer was simple. The weather. – Yours, etc,
DEREK HENRY CARR,
Dublin 1.
Sir, – In the 1960s and 1970s, we envied the lucky few who returned from Mediterranean holidays with tans and smug grins. Why did we have to endure this grey, drizzly climate?
This year, though, friends and neighbours report cancelled walks due to 40 degree temperatures in southern cities, not being allowed leave their cruise ships for fear of heatstroke, and multiple faintings in Italian museum queues.
Having gone no further south than Gorey, I’m the smug one.
In 20 years, the hordes who now besiege over-touristed Barcelona or Venice will be looking for somewhere pleasantly temperate, where they can actually leave their air-conditioned hotel and see the country they’re visiting.
Prepare yourself, Sligo! – Yours, etc,
ANDREW DEACON,
Lucan,
Co Dublin.