Sir, - Eithne McFadden's comments (March 30th) about Ministers "returning from gadding around the globe for St Patrick's Day" are an insult to our public representatives and to many other Irish abroad who work hard to exploit fully the festival of St Patrick's Day for the benefit of the Irish nation.
Unfortunately, Ms McFadden's comments reflect the views of the media when it comes to Ministers travelling abroad. Ireland is unique in having such widespread international recognition of its patron's feast day, something that provides a remarkable window of opportunity for the Irish during the period surrounding the feast. In this regard, Ireland is the envy of the rest of the world in view of the access the festival gives Irish industrialists and politicians to the captains of industry and the leaders of the most powerful nations of the developed world.
Over the years, IDA Ireland offices throughout the world have made optimum use of St Patrick's Day to cultivate foreign investment, resulting in the creation of many thousands of jobs in Ireland. The extraordinary number of US companies with major operations in Ireland bears witness to the fine work of the IDA in North America alone over the years. An essential element of IDA strategy is the inclusion of Government members in as many activities as possible, particularly around St Patrick's Day. Without the impression made by such highlevel political participation it is questionable if the success rate of the IDA would be so high.
Government members generally engage in a whistle-stop tour, attending as many functions as possible to maximise the impact of their visit. I have no doubt that, given the choice, most would far prefer to spend St Patrick's Day relaxing at home with their families and friends.
In contrast to their attitude to politicians, when the Pope embarks on a visit abroad, the media refer unfailingly to his gruelling schedule. Even in his younger days, I don't recollect anybody describing his travels as "gadding around the globe". - Yours, etc.,
Ronnie Sheehan, Glasnevin, Dublin 11.