Madam, - In the Circuit Family Law courts recently, I thought I misheard when various barristers frequently addressed the judge as "Milord", adding a hint of a curtsy. Momentarily, I was transported to the Old Bailey. I was sure that I could not be hearing a form of address so inimical to the Irish Republic, so opposed to the equality of the citizenry unburdened by a monarchy.
I left disappointed that Ireland's universities and Law Society had taught the brightest and best to retain a memento of Ireland's shame and occupation. Why should this craven form of address have been retained after the Rising and War of Independence? What necessary function does it serve? - Yours, etc.,
SHANE O'DOHERTY, Idrone Terrace, Blackrock, Co Dublin.