Sir, – Congratulations to Anne O'Neill on her amusing letter covering the heartaches and relief of her sons leaving home (June 7th).
Your letter-writer seems to be the perfect “Irish mammy”, ensuring her boys lacked nothing while they were at home.
As a grandfather, I have seen this cycle of events.
I agree there is huge personal satisfaction in providing, but I believe a degree of domestic training does stand to the young as they make their way in the world.
Successful attempts to get the offspring to empty the dishwasher and washing machine were usually announced as "We've emptied your dishwasher and washing machine!"
We must not forget that if and when the grandchildren appear, all our domestic experience and skills will again be required.
So, enjoy the break, it could be very temporary! – Yours, etc,
MIKE CORMACK,
Blackrock,
Co Dublin.