Sir, - There have been generous and fully merited congratulations for the several thousand enthusiastic participants in this year's St Patrick's Festival.
To these may I add a further word of congratulations to the people of Ireland - who demonstrated beyond all doubt their capacity to enjoy a good show, even under weather conditions which (Oh Lord!) left something to be desired. - Yours, etc.,
Senator FEARGAL QUINN,
Chairman,
St Patrick's Festival,
Earlsfort Terrace,
Dublin 2.
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Sir, - I think it was a disgrace to see our Defence Forces on parade on such an important day wearing combat uniform, which is a fatigue dress for everyday duties.
What has happened to the Defence Forces Number One Dress, which should be worn on such an occasion? As a former member of the Defence Forces and Irish Guards, I am happy to see the lads getting the new combats. But let's see Number Ones, medals and all, back on parade. - Yours, etc.,
L. CARBERRY,
Harolds Cross,
Dublin 6.
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A chara, - As a wheelchair user, I was pleased to read in your paper that there would be specially designated viewing areas for disabled people at the Skyfest fireworks display.
As promised, the southside area on the quays at the end of Creighton Lane was well marshalled with sufficient space for the number of people using it.
Unfortunately, the planning and implementation left something to be desired. The area assigned was at the west end of the display area and set back about a yard from the viewing line of the rest of the spectator area. This, coupled with the basic fact that people in wheelchairs have an eye level of about four feet, meant that the rest of the spectators obscured all but the highest fireworks from us.
The selected area was also cobbled - not something most able-bodied people would notice, but an extra challenge to those of us in wheelchairs.
Again, I applaud the intentions, but please, when planning facilities such as this, think about the needs of users and if at all possible get our inputs in advance. We would be very happy to help. - Is mise,
DAVID COLLINS,
Leeson Lane,
Dublin 2.