Sir, – Raymond Brown (January 20th) notes that representatives of 11 countries, including some among the poorest in the world (but also including Switzerland), recently presented their credentials as ambassadors to the Holy See and contrasts this with the position of Ireland. In fact, the ambassadors concerned are all accredited on a non-resident basis, exactly the same basis on which Ireland is to be represented. The Government’s nominee for the position of Ambassador has been accepted by the Holy See and is expected to present his credentials to Pope Benedict later in the year. – Yours, etc,