Sir, – I refer to Breda O'Brien's article ("Closure of All Hallows is a loss to third-level education as well as to church", Opinion & Analysis, May 31st) in which she states, "In many ways, All Hallows was like a dream university – small classes, dedicated staff and a particular focus on people who did not fit the standard student profile, side by side with more mainstream candidates . . . it became a warm, humane college of higher education."
I am a middle-aged mother of five who left school in 1979. I have spent the last 35 years rearing my family and minding my own business. In January of this year I started the adult learners BA (ALBA) course in All Hallows and it has transformed my life. It is a unique third-level course for adult learners. A part-time course that supports and encourages adult learners through to a honours-level BA degree in personal and professional development. This course is unique to All Hallows College; it is not in any way possible for me to transfer to any other college in the country to continue the ALBA. This course is going to be lost to all.
I need to register my dismay at the impending closure of this most amazing, warm, wonderful place of education. – Yours, etc,
MARIE LACEY
Georgian Village,
Castleknock, Dublin 15.