Sir, – Frank McNally’s History of Ireland in 100 Nicknames (An Irishman’s Diary, December 8th), makes for a very interesting and amusing take on Irish history.
May I suggest, in the interest of completeness, that the name of “Humanity Dick” be added to the list. Humanity Dick, better known as Col Richard Martin, was appointed high sheriff of Galway in 1782 and was also responsible for the passing of laws relating to animal cruelty. In Connemara, according to local legend and rumour, he was renowned for meeting out extreme punishment, including hanging, to those found guilty of such offences.
While not condoning his zealousness, maybe we could do with a few more of his ilk when it comes to the enforcement our own laws in the Ireland of today. – Yours , etc,