SEAN DUFFY, FTCD
Sir, - You carried an opinion piece (August 10th) in which the author, having informed us that he had "read how work on some archaeological site might further delay the completion of the M50", proceeded to remark that 'It is good that there is a vested interest to protect our archaeological treasures... But who is there in this society to protect the ordinary 'Joe' and to pursue his interests?"
A few comments in response, if I may. First, the South-Eastern Motorway is not being delayed by some archaeological site but by the single most important Irish archaeological discovery of recent times.
Second, "vested interest" is a loaded term that implies personal gain; this is most unfair to groups like An Taisce and the Friends of Medieval Dublin (as it happens, also ordinary Joes) who have nothing whatever to gain by objecting to the destruction of Carrickmines Castle other than protecting a vital piece of our country's history for future generations.
And third, it is ironic, not to say disappointing, that the author of the maladroit remarks quoted above is Sean Flynn, your Education Editor. - Yours, etc.,
SEAN DUFFY, FTCD
Chairman, Friends of Medieval
Dublin,
c/o Trinity College, Dublin 2