Sir, - You, Margaret Ward and the Irish Times staff deserve the highest accolade for the successful resolution of the William Geary matter. I am referring to the retired Garda superintendent, now aged 101 and living in the United States.
The Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, the Minister for Justice, Mr O'Donoghue, and the Attorney General, Mr Byrne, exhibited integrity, courage and compassion in resolving the issue. Nevertheless, without your active public editorial position and Ms Ward's reporting, I am convinced that the current outcome would not have resulted.
It has been my privilege to have William Geary as my godfather. Both he and my late mother were born in the same Co Limerick village of Ballyagran. When he left in 1928, he resolved never to return unless his name was cleared. It is my hope that he - with his good name now restored - will now return to his birthplace for a visit.
On his behalf and my own, I thank you sincerely for your fine work. - Yours, etc., John P. Collins,
Liebig Avenue, Riverdale, New York.