Sir, - We have yet to learn what pressures were brought to bear on Mr Bertie Ahern regarding his radical change of mind on the NATO-led PfP as he moved from opposition to being head of Government. It seems to me that the top echelons of the Irish Defence Forces have been exerting much political pressure in Irish political life to move Ireland into a partnership with NATO.
The sending to East Timor of our elite Army Rangers, who were formed for direct offensive purposes, is a further indication that Ireland wishes to be seen internationally as not just a Celtic Tiger in name only but in action also. The Irish Armed Forces have served this nation well especially on international duties; hopefully they are not beginning to believe that they know best when it comes to the national interest. - Yours, etc.,
Brendan Butler, Swords, Co Dublin.