Sir, - It has been suggested that walkers will need to make an appointment to visit one of our most scenic natural resources, the Old Head of Kinsale in Cork.
The gradual and seemingly relentless encroachment of leisure spots (golf courses, marinas etc.), is resulting in the privatisation of the landscape.
Such is the price, one might say, for the rise of the Celtic tiger, but what creature would engage in the destruction of its own habitat? Hence, on July 1st and 29th, 100s of people gathered on the headland to confront the situation directly. However, the carnival atmosphere almost belied the importance of their cause, as young children and families amassed in front of locked gates, behind which lies what is now known as the Old Head Golf Links. It was a case of the public against the super rich, the traditional stone of accord (a symbol being used by the golf course's owners) not withstanding.
Like Kinsale's De Courcey Castle, now encased beneath coils of barbed wire, the people are under siege from those who see fit to class golfing above walking, as was the verdict of the High Court last March, overturning an ancient right of way. Its status as an historical site, a previous bronze age settlement and Celtic habitation site dating from 300-600 BC could not stop the checkered lawns being laid down, and the clubhouse being built.
Those familiar with the area's legacy will no doubt recall the Battle of Kinsale 400 years ago. We can only hope that a reconquest of our heritage, landscape and national pride will result from this new awareness slowly being brought to light. On the 26th of this month there will be another protest, to which all are invited, and where we will once again express our wish that it'll be the links to the past, and not of the golfing kind, that will prevail. - Yours, etc.,
Ted Tynan, Silversprings Lawn, Tivoli, Co Cork.