Sir, – The decision of David Cameron to host the G8 meeting in Fermanagh was greeted with universal approval. This gesture conveyed the message that even the remotest parts could feel included in the events of worldwide interest and indicated that centralisation in the capital was not essential or even desirable for major world events. The logistics of attending the summit were ignored as it is not beyond the wit of great nations to get their leaders to any destination without too much difficulty.
The Irish Government, in contrast, has indicated its intent to centralise all activity relating to its EU presidency in Dublin. This is consistent with its policy over the years when it was the only government not to hold an IGC (inter-governmental conference) outside of its capital city when these mobile meetings were the norm. The Government is saying to its citizens that Europe ends at Newlands Cross and that the “muck savages” outside the Pale are best kept out of sight while the neighbours are visiting. – Yours, etc,