Madam, - You recently published a report stating that the Schengen Agreement was to be extended to most European states, so that European citizens can travel to nearly all countries in Europe without a passport.
A few weeks ago you reported that due to a British government decision Irish citizens would have to carry a passport to visit the United Kingdom. In these circumstances the Irish Government should apply immediately to Brussels for authorisation to join the Schengen Agreement, so that Irish citizens can travel to all countries of Europe without a passport.
It was an error for Ireland not to join the Schengen Agreement from the start. This should be corrected now. - Yours, etc,
Dr DESMOND KEEGAN, Springhill Park, Killiney, Co Dublin.
Madam, - Your Editorial "The Schengen Zone" (December 24th) was very well put and timely. As the British become ever more detached from the EU, it is time for us to decide where our future lies.
I do not believe rejection of the Schengen Agreement is what the Irish people want. As you state, "it draws this State back into a British legal, political and security orbit from which membership of the EU mainstream has successfully diversified it in recent decades".
Your suggestion that Ireland, north and south, could apply to join Schengen without prejudice to Northern Ireland's UK position should have the support of all political parties, north and south. - Yours, etc,
JAMES MORAN, Knockanure, Bunclody, Co Wexford.