Renewing the Republic

Madam, – I do not recognise the UCD Confucius Institute as described by Prof Tom Garvin (Opinion, May 1st)

Madam, – I do not recognise the UCD Confucius Institute as described by Prof Tom Garvin (Opinion, May 1st). I have worked with the Confucius Institute – at second level – over the past three years. In my view, his words are extremely harsh, his criticism undeserved.

I have found the Confucius Institute to be a highly professional body, respectful of our school’s ethos, with a keen interest in learning, an enthusiasm for imparting knowledge of spoken and written Chinese, an openness to discussion and a great willingness to adapt to the challenges of working in an Irish context. – Yours, etc.

CATHERINE DONAGH,

Principal,

Loreto Secondary School,

Bray, Co Wicklow.