Sir, – I have returned to Ireland in the past couple of months, having lived in the German- speaking part of Switzerland for almost five years. During this time I learned much from my close neighbour Germany and its beautiful people. One of the most notable observations since returning to Ireland is the petty attitude towards efficient Germany.
I, for one, got great peace of mind from seeing and experiencing life in these two countries where things were quite simply done well or in other words German efficiency. This beautiful dedication to doing things well is evident almost everywhere, from the streets, buildings, infrastructure and respectfulness and sincerity of the people.
Instead of nit-picking about this German efficiency, as did Derek Scally in his article, “Flaws in the ‘well-oiled orderly wonderland’ ” that is Germany (Berlin Diary, December 16th) adding to the already ignorant and jealous attitude within the Irish psyche towards Germany, perhaps we could focus our attentions on what it is that they get so right and try and learn from them. – Is mise,