Sir, - It is greatly disturbing to read about the on-going disagreement between the Arts Council and the Gate Theatre. This theatre has given years of entertainment to theatre-goers and also given opportunities to both playwrights and actors. From its inception it has firmly placed Irish theatre on the world stage.
In this so-called era of the Celtic Tiger we now find the Arts Council unwilling to support this theatre. Are we now back to the days of Lord Longford, who stood on the steps with his collection-box seeking financial help from the public? As for the idea that Michael Colgan should not be on the board - that is utter rubbish. He needs to be there if for no other reason than that he is the link between the public and the board.
Why do the good things of this country have to be soured by begrudgers. Would the Arts Council come to its senses and realise what a treasure it actually has in the Gate Theatre not just for Ireland but also in its work abroad. - Yours, etc.,
H.J. Beckett, Blackrock, Co Dublin.