Sir, - History tells us that among the happiest times spent by Lord Edward Fitzgerald were those at Frescati House, Blackrock, with his wife, Lady Pamela. A letter written on May 6th, 1793 to his Mother, Lady Emily, Duchess of Leinster bears ample testimony to Fitzgerald's deep affection for Frescati.
The destruction of the house in November, 1983 is regarded by many, including myself, as an act of mindless vandalism.
A statue should be erected to the memory of this great man, not just for his courage and bravery, but also for his commitment to our country and for his and his family's association with Frescati House. Both the Blackrock Society and the Blackrock Chamber of Commerce fully support this venture.
I shall be tabling a motion to this effect at a future council meeting and I look forward to the day when a memorial to Lord Edward Fitzgerald will stand proudly in the centre of Blackrock. - Yours, etc.,
Cllr William Dockrell, Newtownpark Avenue, Blackrock, Co Dublin.