`Colour Parties'

Sir, - Your photograph of the Sinn Fein "colour party" at Bodenstown (The Irish Times, June 21st) shows a very sad, smug, sinister…

Sir, - Your photograph of the Sinn Fein "colour party" at Bodenstown (The Irish Times, June 21st) shows a very sad, smug, sinister and sick paramilitary display which, I understood, was outlawed several years ago. Looking at these young ladies dressed in black berets, dark glasses, black gloves, jackets, skirts and shoes, prompts the question: What message is Sinn Fein trying to give us? Do the other political parties have "colour parties"?

An explanation from anyone in Sinn Fein would be very welcome. - Yours, etc.,Paul Buckley,

Clar Road, Donegal Town, Co Donegal.