NORMAN H. SMITH,
Sir, - I was glad to read that Denis Gill (March 28th) was wished a "happy St Patrick's day" on Dun Laoghaire pier by an African man, although I wonder if he is certain that it was not an Irishman whose forebears came from Africa.
However, I was sad to read, on the same page, Michael Salter referring to the "Church", when it is clear from the context that he means the Roman Catholic Church. As a Presbyterian, I too belong to the Church.
Mr Salter may believe what he wishes, but I find his language exclusive. So your readers may understand why some Northern Protestants may feel, however mistakenly and no doubt in ignorance of the great changes over the past few decades, that the Republic has still a tiny step to take before being completely multicultural.
It also reinforces the views of some of my co-religionists who despise all things Roman Catholic, but I don't suppose that they read The Irish Times. NORMAN H. SMITH,
Yours, etc.,
Whitehead,
Co Antrim.