Sir, - Mr Gerry McAlister (May 25th) mispresents the issue I raised; not surprising, perhaps, in the light of the spin put upon it by some sections of the media.
The issue I raised is a serious one for all the developing towns in the eastern part of the country, including many in this diocese. Present school facilities will not be able to cater in future years for all the children of these communities. New schools will have to be built. Should it be the responsibility of the Catholic parish community to build, fund and maintain such schools when for many in these communities the Church and parish is irrelevant?
Mr McAlister tries to make much of State financial support for Catholic primary schools. Such support is given to all schools, whatever their ethos. Are not Catholics as entitled as others to their constitutional rights? - Yours, etc.,
Michael Smith, Bishop of Meath, Mullingar, Co Westmeath.