Sir, - I support the campaign to locate the new All-Ireland Language body in West Belfast because of the Silicon Valley syndrome!
Let me explain. The energy and innovation is here. I am from the South and moved to live in West Belfast for the first time in my life two years ago. Within that time, I have begun to re-learn Irish and speak it - even with a bit of an Ulster blas. And I am one of those people who say, "I hated Irish at school".
But the incentive is here because it is used as a living, working language. I use it in the local cafes, I hear it in the restaurants, and speak in the pub - where my fluency improves! It makes good economic sense to locate the office close to the action. We need some bold moves to break the cycle of exclusion of West Belfast from investment and job opportunities.
The last single biggest investment in the area was a police barracks, the next is the Springvale University Campus, straddling the peace line. The opportunity is here. Don't waste it. I haven't heard lately of any computer companies wanting to go to Detroit or car companies seeking a spot in Silicon Valley. Why not give West Belfast its centre of excellence? - Yours, etc.,
Caroline Nolan, Belfast 12.