Sir, - Fintan O'Toole's theory that the current housing crisis could lead to improved social integration sounds plausible, but there are other potential outcomes of escalating house prices. If an area such as Ballyfermot becomes an acceptable option for the young couple from Rathgar, then where does the process end? It may not result in what might be described as a healthy mix of the classes if the local community is pushed further out to less desirable areas.
Where will the young couple born and bred in Ballyfermot purchase their first home? - Yours, etc.,
John O'Neill, Christchurch, Dublin 8.