Madam, - With reference to John Downes's report, "UCD launches inquiry into Opus Dei claims by students" (April 3rd), the Opus Dei Information Office in Dublin would like to make the following observations:
a) If there has been some kind of misunderstanding in relation to a lecturer's alleged instructions to students, then it is earnestly hoped that any UCD inquiry will determine the truth.
b) Any requirement for students "to attend an Opus Dei event in order to pass their exams" would be unjust and would run totally counter to the profound respect for individual freedom that Opus Dei fosters.
c) Pending more factual information, a few points might help put things in perspective. This office understands that the marking of all examinations in UCD is anonymous; that attendance at any particular lecture, even on campus, is seldom if ever compulsory; that decisions to fail students are made not by individuals but by exam boards, on the recommendation of departments and of external examiners, based on exam performance; and that UCD has an elaborate exams appeal procedure.
d) The Irish Times article is based on a report appearing in a student newspaper (The University Observer, March 31st) in which the president of the students' union also attacks the UCD department in question on a range of other issues. Your report didn't mention this.
It is particularly regrettable that the Irish Times front page article should attempt to associate Opus Dei with "obsessive secrecy and 'sect-like' behaviour", as if this were somehow relevant to, or supportive of, the story.
These accusations are false and offensive to anyone who takes part in Opus Dei activities. Such sensationalist allegations, without even the semblance of supporting evidence, should not be printed in any context. - Yours, etc.,
PAUL HARMAN, Information Office, Opus Dei Prelature, 10 Hume Street, Dublin 2.