Sir, – With reference to Frank McDonald’s article (Home News, July 11th), it was with regret that we learned that the Abbey Theatre Bridge did not make the final five shortlisted names for the new bridge in Dublin city centre.
We would like to thank our 2,577 supporters from all over the world who so passionately supported our campaign to have an Abbey Theatre Bridge.
The Abbey Theatre has been located in the heart of Dublin city since 1904. It is part of the fabric and character of Dublin city and has always been at the heart of the cultural and civic life of Ireland. We are proud of our history and the support we have given to the many actors, playwrights, directors, designers and the Irish public who have engaged with us for nearly 110 years.
The Abbey Theatre is internationally renowned. Last year, 120,000 people from 59 countries visited us.
In years to come, the new Abbey Theatre building will be just yards away from the new landmark bridge.
We are disappointed to learn that not all naming committee members were present at the pivotal vote on July 10th. We would welcome the opportunity to make a formal presentation to the naming committee members and to all Dublin City councillors to ensure our intentions for our great city are well understood. – Yours, etc,
Senator FIACH
MacCONGHAIL,
Director,
Abbey Theatre,
Dublin 2.