Sir, - Road construction in Ireland displays a total inability to devise and provide what used to be called "manholes" that do not endanger car wheels, tyres and suspension. Continental European personholes allow for smooth, uninterrupted motoring, which appears to be beyond the ability of our engineering fraternity.
While on the subject, may I add that Dublin is rapidly becoming a patchwork of potholes, with bucket-and-spade repairs reflecting the periodic digging up of the city roads by service providers of all kinds. Perhaps the Minister for Local Government should do a tour of the East Wall Road, the roads around the Financial Services Centre and indeed some of the allegedly upmarket suburban enclaves. Presumably, if one is used to helicopters, Government jets and top-of-the-range Mercedes, one becomes oblivious to the trials and tribulations of John and Mary Citizen. - Yours, etc.,
Donal Flinn, Rathgar, Dublin 6.