Sir, - I think it is significant that very few disabled persons commented on the controversial remarks by M.E. Synon in the Sunday Independent.
As a disabled people myself I soon learnt to develop a thick skin about derogatory and hurtful opinions.
I think I would agree with your columnist Kevin Myers that perhaps Ms Synon was railing against egalitarianism. In doing so, she succeeded only in being extremely offensive towards disabled athletes. When I consider my own pathetic attempts at disabled sports, I realise the magnitude of their achievements.
However, it is possible that something worthwhile will come from all the press coverage. Maybe, just maybe, the huge proportion of able-bodied motorists who think nothing of parking in disabled parking spaces will see the error of their ways.
Maybe more employers will consider giving jobs to disabled persons.
Who knows, architects might make all new buildings in the State accessible to wheelchair users.
Finally, our politicians might strive to end the marginalisation of the disabled.
I live in hope. - Yours, etc.,
W.R. Martin, Dean's Court, Deansgrange, Co Dublin.