Sir, - The Donal McCann we knew bore a great resemblance to Kevin Myers's descriptive piece (An Irishman's Diary, July 23rd).
Donal lived among us here in Glasnevin for quite a number of years and, with Fedelma Cullen by his side, he was part of a scene. He loved to chat with our boot-maker on the corner, visit the well-known Kavanagh's Pub in the square, back a horse up the road and then visit the old and dilapidated shop on Prospect Road where himself and the owner would chat for hours.
He was so completely himself: no sides, just Donal McCann. Yes, I know he would hurl a few insults on a Friday and apologise on a Monday, but there was never any malice or nastiness meant by his remarks.
A great actor has left us. May he rest in peace. - Yours, etc.
Eva Hynes, Prospect Square, Glasnevin, Dublin 9.