A chara, - Mr Myers's right to express an opinion on the Irish language is acknowledged (An Irishman's Diary, February 27th). However, we feel it only right to refute some comments made regarding the state of the Irish language today.
Mr Myers speaks of coercion, but in a survey taken before Christmas, some 65 per cent of those asked stated that Irish was a vital part of our culture and that every reasonable step should be taken to ensure it remained a language of everyday use. In our bilingual country, the wishes of the majority must be upheld. In light of this positive attitude towards Irish, it is strange that Michael McDowell's supportive opinion be a lone voice; it may be that Mr Myers' voice may be the lone one.
If, as Mr Myers states, the language is "palpably dying", how come the number of Gaelscoileanna is increasing (throughout all social class areas, with which he has a fixation) and why is there an unprecedented demand for Irish classes and courses? The State is making solid progress in promoting and encouraging bilingualism, according to the wishes of the majority of Irish people. Le deahui,
Oifigeach Caidreamh Poibli,
Bord na Gaeilge,
7 Merrion Square,
Dublin 2.