Sir, - I refer to your report (The Irish Times, February 26th) that the ruined building that was Daniel O'Connell's birthplace is for sale. While the Office of Public Works took over Derrynane House and did a magnificent job in its restoration, I could never understand why the birthplace at Carhan was so neglected. I was born and grew up adjacent to Carhan House and as a schoolboy it was a constant source of annoyance to me to see cattle sheltering in the famous old building.
In the 19th century the good people of Caherciveen and their friends from all over the world subscribed to the building of the magnificent O'Connell Memorial Church in the town. I now appeal to their heirs to lobby the Government to purchase the ground containing the ruins of Carhan House and to instruct the excellent Office Of Public Works to restore and preserve the home of Morgan O'Connell and the birthplace of his son, Ireland's most illustrious statesman, The Liberator Daniel O'Connell. - Yours, etc.,
J.J. Barry, (Maj Gen Rtd.,) Baily, Howth.