Sir, - I refer to the letter from John Ducie (August 6th). I am full of admiration for An Taisce's careful nurturing of the "Red Book" species currently growing in this marsh. I would simply wish to remind Mr Ducie, and your readers, that this special habitat was created by the building of the Dublin to Kingstown railway in the 1830s. I think it is fair to say that if such a construction was attempted today, it would be fought tooth and nail by An Taisce.
Progress, in the shape of new roads, railways, etc, can benefit the environment in ways which are not at first apparent. There is a balance between the obvious benefits and the possible harm flowing from such new developments. Bodies like An Taisce need to consider the overall balance before they mount all-out opposition to much-needed infrastructure. - Yours, etc., M. J. Boyle,
Butterfield Drive,
Rathfarnham,
Dublin 14.