Sir, The statement by Mary Robinson that she doesn't intend seeking re-election is unfortunate, since she has, been the most dynamic President in recent history. Since she has spent her tenure of office reinvigorating the position it would be remiss if it were allowed revert to the sinecure it had become.
In one of the few democracies to elect a female head of state, it should not be allowed relapse into previous masculine inertia. Consequently, the deficiency of female candidates is cause for concern, since we risk losing the progressive edge in political egalitarianism.
The positive reverberations of her election cannot be underestimated. It inspired female diplomats from other jurisdictions. It provided a focus for international women's affairs Ireland was perceived as a "female friendly" political environment. Her subsequent sterling service placed this country centre stage in compassionate affairs.
Whilst not wishing to be unduly effusive, all of this was regardless of reactionary outbursts from clerical misogynists or theological naysayers with pens dipped in vitriol, whose recalcitrance is a disservice to Mother Church insulting to sister President, and collectively contemptuous of the female sex generally. (Might we expect a practical demonstration in Christian penitence, by way of retraction and apology?) The President might well have been advised to beware the Ides of March, before her visit to Rome.
Hopefully, the Aras will not return to the ostensible retirement home for elder statesmen which it had become. Also, let us hope that women in public and social service will consider contesting the election. I remain convinced that the greatest service we males can perform is to transfer power to the opposite sex, with apologies for the abysmal state we have succeeded in reducing affairs to. (Fr O'Hanlon, please take note) Yours, etc.,
Lower Rathmines Road, Portobello, Dublin 6.