Sir, - It is with foreboding that I follow the daily events in Austria regarding the inclusion of the far right "Freedom Party" in that country's national government.
Memories of Germany in 1933 come to mind as I watch the spectre of fascism emerge yet again. Few foresaw the consequences of such events in 1933; we, however, have the enabling power of hindsight and thus have no excuses for doing nothing this time.
Ireland's record on opposing fascism is not a good one (with some notable exceptions). Today we can make tentative amends by withdrawing our ambassador from Austria.
Mr Cowen can show his true mettle. Let us see principle addressed above economic matters in relation to our foreign policy. Let us act now and show the world where we stand regarding fascism! - Yours, etc.,
David Whelan, North Strand, Dublin 3.