Madam, - I am surprised at the lack of objectivity in Frank McDonald's "analysis" of Minister Dick Roche's decision to proceed with the M3 on the planned route (The Irish Times, March 31st).
I would have expected a more balanced approach from your Environment Editor, rather than a recital of the arguments of the "anti" lobby, which now seem to be repeated again and again with little or nothing new being added to the debate.
To add balance, Mr McDonald should spend some time examining, not just the chaos on the N3, which he acknowledges, but on the regional roads and byroads that fringe the N3.
These totally inadequate roads are being used extensively by HGVs and other vehicles in an attempt to avoid the chaos on the N3 and the gridlock in the towns on its route. This leads to a difficult and dangerous environment for the people who live on these roads.
It is important that we keep a balance between respecting the past and living in the present. - Yours, etc.,
EAMON HODGE, Headfort Road, Kells, Co Meath.