Madam, - With reference to Mr Russell's letter of July 23rd regarding the "imposing monument" in Trim, Co Meath, with the figure of Arthur Wellesley on top, I would like to add my opinion.
Firstly, I am a native of Trim and a Catholic Irishman.
I have no desire to see the statue of Wellington in my home town demolished.
Secondly, I have never heard it suggested by any local in Trim that the pillar be demolished.
I must ask Mr Russell why he presumes the people of Trim want the pillar demolished?
Does he feel the 10,000 or so inhabitants of Trim are offended by its presence?
Or does he share the same ignorant attitude I have experienced whilst in New York, that all Irish people "hate" or "cannot tolerate" anything English or non-Catholic?
He, being an Irish history student, should brush up on his knowledge of recent Irish history.
There is no longer a "war"; it's insulting that he feels we should want the statue torn down.
I wonder how Native Americans feel about the thousands of skyscrapers that are now cramming their once sacred land? - Yours, etc.,
PETER CLANCY, Trim, Co Meath.
Madam, - In response to Thomas Dion Russell's letter, I would suggest that there is no dilemma.
As a native of Trim, to me the statue is a suitable reminder of past historical associations - good or bad.
However, if a change is required, I would like to propose a candidate - William of Orange.
His qualifications : (1) Strong historical Meath connection; (2) Significant contribution to the formation of modern Ireland (3); Not English. - Yours, etc.,
FRANK COURTNEY, Crosthwaite Park South, Dún Laoghaire.