Madam, - It was with great concern that I read the report by Frank McDonald headed "Some local authorities to lose heritage officers" (The Irish Times, December 30th).
Ireland has a unique place in modern Europe. The island was spared the ravages of two World Wars and countless other conflicts. Also, Ireland did not have the heavy industrial development of other European countries. This has left much of our archaeology and natural environment intact. The protection of Ireland's heritage should be a priority for those lucky enough to live on this island.
The thought that local authorities may lose their heritage officers when Ireland has so much to offer environmentally and historically is deeply disappointing.
Currently, Ireland is too concerned with further economic development. While the impoverishment of our past, particularly in the 1930s and 1940s, is reason enough to be concerned with building a strong economy, it should not be done at all costs.
Protection of heritage requires a voice among the decision makers. If our heritage is not to be championed by Government and local authorities at a time of unprecedented wealth and tax revenue, there is little hope of it being defended by the champions of private industry.
Local authorities need to place the needs of the locality and country ahead of party political interest.- Yours, etc.,
DOMINIC PRICE, Esker Lodge, Lucan, Co Dublin.