Sir, - Hats off to Elaine Lafferty. She has set a benchmark by which media criticism of public figures may be judged. Her adverse comments (News Features, September 25th) on the performance of President McAleese in California were direct, honest and forceful, yet she conveyed a respect and appreciation for the great reservoir of charisma, intellect and character which is Mary McAleese.
Others please copy. - Yours, etc.,
Kevin Healy, Hampstead Avenue, Glasnevin, Dublin 9.