Sir, – As one of the many Catalans who see no contradiction between their Spanish and Catalan identities, I believe Richard Fitzpatrick's article "Push for separatist state muddies waters of Barcelona's glorious reign in Spain" (Sport, November 7th) reflects the confusion and misunderstandings that are generated by the "Catalan question".
The description of the migrants from the rest of Spain, who are today part of the Catalan society, as a “besieged minority . . . a million of whom support Real Madrid” is very unfortunate. Even less fortunate is the assertion that “they resent that their kids are educated through the Catalan language”.
As an integral part of Spanish society, Catalan society is inclusive, open and plural. The Catalan language is fully recognised by the Spanish constitution and extensively used at school. Some parents in Catalonia have also requested for their children their constitutional right to be educated in Spanish, which, together with Catalan, is the official language in Catalonia.
The characterisation of FC Barcelona as “Catalonia’s unarmed army internationally” is not only a dangerous metaphor but also disdainful of the rest of Catalan football clubs that also represent the feelings of the Catalans.
The assertions in the article regarding the legal and political process in Catalonia are out of context. The suspension by the constitutional court of the so-called “participatory consultation” of November 9th was sustained by the rule of law, a fundamental pillar in any democratic society.
The “Catalan question” is indeed one of the greatest challenges in today’s Spain. I am fully convinced that wisdom and common sense will prevail and that “El Clásico – FC Barcelona vs Real Madrid” will continue to be one of the most beautiful and passionate rivalries in sports anywhere, making the Spanish Liga the best in the world. – Yours, etc,
RAFAEL SORIANO,
Chargé d´Affaires
of the Embassy of Spain,
Merlyn Park,
Dublin 4.