PAUL D. BURNS,
Madam, - It must be comforting to those whom Denise Ní Dhuibhir (October 28th) left behind in Donegal to hear her criticisms of "the proliferation of holiday homes" in her native county.
However, as one who owns such a home there, I have yet to hear any complaints from the many tradespeople, shopkeepers, fuel suppliers, bar owners and hoteliers who receive thousands of euro each year from my family and our friends during our frequent visits.
I hope Ms Ní Dhuibhir is as generous in her spending on her visits back home to Donegal and doesn't cringe too much at the proliferation and growth of the small businesses which have developed around the holiday home industry. These business have restored some of the vibrancy to an area which others have willingly abandoned. - Is mise,
PAUL D. BURNS, Strathallan Park, Belfast 10.
... ... * ... * ... * ... ...
Madam, - In response to Denise Ní Dhuibhir letter's on planning in Donegal, I can update her on the position in the county. My motion at the last meeting of the County Council on October 14th proposing "a charge on holiday homes to fund environmental and infrastructural needs" was agreed unanimously by the members. I have asked that it be considered at our estimates meeting in November.
Maybe other local authorities could consider a similar measure.
- Yours, etc.,
Cllr JIMMY HARTE, Sylvan Park, Letterkenny, Co Donegal.