Madam, - Much has been made in recent days of the security threat to Ireland posed by the visit of the US president in June for the US/EU summit.
The level of bile and vituperation from the usual suspects is stunning - yet welcome in that it dispels the most enduring myth of this benighted island, that of the traditional welcome for visitors.
The issue has spawned some unholy alliances between so-called peace activists, selective protesters (ignore all world injustices, focus on Anglo-American affairs only), and every dissatisfied, anti-everything, moaning, miserable miscreant on this island.
The participation of certain political figures and parties has at least clarified my voting decisions in any future elections.
For the first time in my life, I am embarrassed to be Irish, especially as I have travelled extensively in America and been entranced by the sheer warmth, friendliness and hospitality of its people.
I welcome the visit of President Bush as representing the people of America and can only hope they will, in time, forgive our appalling bad manners. May God bless America, longtime friend of Ireland. - yours, etc.,
G.LACEY, Lough Atalia Grove, Renmore, Galway.