A chara, – Cormac O’Culain’s letter (October 20th) on the bilingual efforts of some of our presidential candidates struck a somewhat negative note, which is regrettable. I thought they all did well in the circumstances. Most of all their efforts reflected the widespread affection there still is for the language among the wider public. While top marks in the class have to go to Michael D Higgins, of the learners, I thought Daithí Norris in particular showed a real flair for the gaelic sounds.
While I agree with Mr O’Culain that the debate would have been grist for Myles na gCopaleen’s satirical mill, I think that great writer in Irish and English would also have been quietly pleased that 100 years after his birth, when English has become a linguistic juggernaut across the globe, that all aspirants to our highest office still support the embattled ancient language, which is unique to this small island. – Is mise,
JOHN GLENNON,
Hollywood,
Co Wicklow.
Sir, – The questions for Martin McGuinness: 1. If elected, he has promised to accept the average industrial wage, instead of the presidential salary. Does this mean he will give the remainder back to the State or does it go in to the coffers of the Sinn Féin party?
2. If elected, will Mr McGuinness be transported in his official car by Garda drivers or will he insist – as in the case at Stormont – on having members of his party behind the wheel? – Yours, etc,
Sir, – Will Martin McGuinness kindly reveal the wording of the oath he took on joining the Official IRA (Home News, October 13th)? To whom or what did it pledge loyalty or was it just a promise to obey orders?
Did it include a time limit, or an escape clause about circumstances changing? If not, he will, as a practising Catholic, be aware that it still binds him, whether or not his Provisional activities breached its terms; and it is likely that it conflicts with, and may even outrank, and thus nullify, the undertakings he would make if elected president.
Under Article 12.8 of the Constitution, these are not enshrined in an oath but in a declaration, of which the operative phrase is “solemnly and sincerely promise and declare . . .”
The references to the Almighty are peripheral, rather than integral as in an oath. I imagine this was a deliberate choice on the part of Mr De Valera, who didn’t care much for oaths! – Yours, etc,
MICHAEL DRURY,
Avenue Louise,
Brussels, Belgium.
A chara, – I wonder is Gay Mitchell, or indeed any member of the Fine Gael party, sought after as a consultant to peace negotiations in other regions of the world? For a party that persistently harangues experienced peace- makers, its expertise does not seem to be of value. Hurlers in the ditch is the term that comes to mind! – Is mise,
JENNY MULVEY,
Ballinrobe, Co Mayo.
Sir, – As I awoke from a deep sleep to the sound of Michael D on Morning Irelandwaffling on about his Vision, it conjured up for me images of comely maidens dancing at the cross-roads. Maybe it's just me. – Yours, etc,
Sir, – What seems to be missing from the CVs of most of the candidates is their ability to represent Ireland diplomatically at international level. True, most talk of how they can drum up jobs by accompanying trade missions, but surely this should be just a small element of the presidential role? Of all the candidates standing, Gay Mitchell is the only one who has had protracted involvement in international politics.
Through my work, I have personal experience of the high regard in which he is held by MEPs from every EU member state and from every political grouping in Europe. He is also extremely well versed in the politics of Europe, and beyond, through his membership on the EU Committee on Development and the Committee on Economic and Monetary Affairs.
He is also a committed politician and his support for a European Declaration on Epilepsy, which was carried recently in the European Parliament bearing the signatures of no fewer than 459 MEPs, is testament both to his popularity in Europe and to his ability to get things done. – Yours, etc,