Madam, - What a pity Dan Keenan's uplifting report headed, "Ulster's 'true blue' Linfield come to the aid of St Mary's camogie team" (The Irish Times, February 3rd), rather than appearing on the front page, was relegated to the bottom of page 10, almost hidden below three depressing articles highlighting political and para-military intransigence.
Ms Mel O'Neill, St Mary's camogie manager, having failed to get a positive response from the GAA when she sought the use of a floodlit training area for her team to prepare for the Purcell Cup semi-final, approached David Jeffrey, manager of Linfield. Mr Jeffrey immediately afforded the camogie team every facility of Midgley Park, "in the heart of the staunchly loyalist Village area".
Mr Jeffrey said Linfield was "privileged to help", that he would be cheering on St Mary's and indicated that he wished to "Thank God to get the opportunity to get close to our friends who play camogie".
I, and no doubt many more, Southerners, will be cheering on Linfield in the future.
Politicians on all sides should note that these are the people who have given them their mandates and that their wishes, as indicated so eloquently in the attitudes and actions of the St Mary's and Linfield representatives, deserve better that grandstanding, blatant hypocrisy and contempt. - Yours, etc.,
Dr CIARÁN Ó COIGLIGH,
St Patrick's College,
Drumcondra,
Dublin 9
Madam, - At a time of increasing gloom and disillusionment over the political situation here, it was positively heartening to read of Linfield F.C.'s generosity in providing training facilities for the camogie teams of St Mary's University College from the Falls Road.
As a member of the GAA I have been opposed to the playing of soccer or rugby at our stadiums, but I have now changed my mind. Any such move by the GAA would break down barriers and broaden the potential playing/supporter base as well as being in its financial interest. - Yours, etc.,
PAUL LAVERY,
Maryville Park,
Belfast 9.