Sir, - One wonders why W. T. Cosgrave, who played such a major role in the foundation of the State, has not received more recognition. No doubt Stephen Collins's book The Cosgrave Legacy is a step in that direction.
Cosgrave distinguished himself in the 1916 Rebellion and was sentenced to death but reprieved. After release from prison he served as a Minister of Dail Eireann, earning himself a further two terms of imprisonment.
As President of the Free State Government he carried the main burden of dealing with a tragic civil war. His peaceful handing over of power to his former adversaries in 1932 contributed greatly to the stabilisation of democracy at such a critical time.
When he died, Sean Lemass paid him a fulsome tribute in which he asserted that he had left a legacy which all people who valued democracy would forever cherish.
Statesman, patriot, rebel: Has the time come for W. T. Cosgrave to be awarded the approbation he deserves? - Yours, etc.,
T. Fuller,
Rathfarnham, Dublin 14.