Sir, - I went for a walk last Sunday on Killiney beach. As you park your car nearby, you gaze at magnificent multi-million-euro houses on Killiney Hill.
You reflect on the wealth and affluence of this beautiful area with its wonderful views of bay and mountains, yet close to city life. But as you embark on a walk along the beach, you see widespread litter and listen to afternoon drunks. You resist taking shelter from the rain in the concrete huts because they are defiled with urine and faeces, though the graffiti may catch your attention for a moment. The public toilets are locked up and/or vandalised. If you want to dispose of your litter, you put it in your pocket because there are no bins in sight, and if you do find one, it is full anyway. Overall, you are struck by the general air of decay.
As you drive home, you wonder how this place, and others like it, can be reduced to such a state. You realise that we hardly notice this national trait any more. This is when you truly despair, because we've gone past the point of no return.
TOM FARRELL,
The Sweepstakes,
Dublin 4.