Sir, – May I assure Clíona Saidléar that it is not accent that upsets native speakers. What is grating to their ears is the disregard by many foghlaimeoirí for three basic elements necessary for the correct speaking of any language, namely syntax, grammar and pronunciation (gutturals, broad and slender consonants, etc). There are many different accents in every country and also within the Gaeltachts and they are readily and mutually accepted. I am speaking from my personal experience of living among speakers of English, French and Spanish. Yours, etc,
EOGHAN Ó LOINGSIGH,
Caisleán Ghriaire
Co Chiarraí