JOAN and
Sir, - We read with interest Robert S. Myerscough's letter of March 27th. My husband and I have just returned from our second visit to Ireland and our trip was marred by just one thing - the evident destruction of the rural landscape. Repeatedly, we saw scenic areas and remote country roads blemished by new nondescript and "trophy" houses that tarnish the countryside which you in Ireland have been so fortunate to inherit.
Surely the consolidation of new homes into existing towns and villages would be a far superior solution to the need for housing throughout Ireland as its wealth and population expand in the 21st century.
It was with some measure of hope then, that we learned from Mr Myerscough's letter of the existence of An Taisce, a group that is concerned about this issue.
Certainly the loss of the rural landscape for the building of these houses cannot be allowed to continue if Ireland is to retain its allure for both its own citizens and the many American citizens who, like us, plan to visit the beautiful Irish countryside. Should the current rate of destruction continue, we would not return.
I hope you might bring our heartfelt concerns to the attention of your readers. - Yours, etc.,
JOAN and HAROLD SEAMON,
Williamsburg,
Virginia,
USA.