Sir, - Vincent Browne's comments on the whiter-than-white Des O'Malley are admirable for the balanced presentation of both debit and credit sides of this interesting politician, who may yet be seen by historians as a statesman (Opinion, May 2nd).We Irish have a lamentable talent for damning politicians for their sins instead of taking a mature and balanced view of a career to date. - Yours, etc.,Kevin Healy, Hampstead Avenue, Glasnevin, Dublin 9.