WHERE STANDS THE ABBEY?

JAMES O'CONNOR,

Sir, - Can anyone give any rational justification for the proposed re-building of the Abbey Theatre in its present circumscribed area? It is obvious that expensive property will have to be bought.

This is the National Theatre and the main street in the national capital is O'Connell Street. I should not have to express the obvious. An ideal space is available there to build once and for all a decent National Theatre. That end of O'Connell Street has always needed a cultural flagship and now an excellent opportunity is available. Even at this late date, let's see that Ireland's ultimate cultural projection is properly sited. - Yours, etc.,

JAMES O'CONNOR,

Eustace Street,

Temple Bar,

Dublin 2