Sir, - Whatever happened to "Dublin, The Millennium Capital of Europe", a concept launched so enthusiastically earlier in the year? The lack of a suitably large and properly organised celebration of the new millennium in our capital compares very badly with the ceremonies arranged in most major cities around the world, and reflects very badly on the Government and on local authorities. But it is the impression created among tourists over the New Year period that may prove most harmful.
I had the misfortune to pass through Dublin city centre at 9 p.m. on New Year's Eve. Large numbers of foreign visitors wandered around in vain trying to find any festivities. The only major events were the open-air concert in Merrion Square (tickets sold out two weeks previously) and the fireworks display being held far outside the city centre.
The unfortunate tourists found hardly any pubs or restaurants open, but no shortage of the drunken Irish. Most of the locals in view were wandering through the streets, drinking and shouting obscenities. The atmosphere was distinctly nasty, with hardly any gardai in attendance. The city of Dublin has much to be ashamed of.
Finally, I hope that any foreign visitors in need of police assistance did better than ask the garda on duty at Christ Church who assured me that the fireworks display was taking place "down at the docks, opposite the Custom House, at that new millennium bridge"! - Yours, etc., Paul Carroll,
Greenmount Road, Terenure, Dublin 6.