Madam, - The recent criticisms by the actor Gabriel Byrne of the way in which Galway city has been developing (The Irish Times, August 14th) should not be dismissed lightly.
Galway has always been a special place, with a collective spirit that has allowed so much creativity and innovation to blossom. However, it is up to the people of Galway city and their elected representatives to guard and nurture the spirit that makes it such a great place.
There is no question that the city has been suffering from over-development in recent years. Countless soulless developments have been highlighted and Gabriel Byrne highlighted the re-design of Eyre Square as one of the worst examples.
Many Galwegians would agree. In a community referendum held last June, thousands of people turned out to vote on the issue and an unprecedented number of objections were made to the original plan.
The Galway City manager, Mr John Tierney has of course ably defended the re-design works, which will mean that Eyre Square will not be open to the public for at least two summers. While there is no question that all the proper procedures were followed to the letter, the new plan lacks soul. Now Mr Tierney is heading off to work for Fingal County Council, leaving Eyre Square behind him.
While many public representatives privately disagreed with what was happening, not many were prepared to stand up and be counted. This resulted in a very clear vote for change in the recent local elections. I hope the people of Galway City are not going to be disappointed with the new regime. - Yours, etc.,
Cllr NIALL Ó BROLCHÁIN, Cappagh Road, Galway.