Madam, – I am intrigued by your report of an address by Michael McDowell to some 40 dinner guests at the Kildare Street and University Club (Front page, July 30th). Like others, I would like to know if The Irish Timeswas present or was provided with a script of Mr McDowell's address.
I find it remarkable that such a speech should come to public notice so prominently, yet as it was a private event we are unaware of the identity of those who so warmly applauded Mr McDowell's views. I cannot help but wonder what the late Claud Cockburn would have to say if he were still with us and contributing his column to The Irish Times.
I would be most interested to read some analysis of this event and similar ones which are apparently planned, rather than see a newspaper of record act as a publicist or intermediary for the views expressed at such “private” events. – Yours, etc,