Sir, - In the course of his reasoned critique of the film Michael Collins (October 12th) Mr Kevin Myers implied that the presence in Ireland in 1920 of a self starting engine and a zip fastener was improbable.
The first successful electric starter for cars was developed by Charles F. Kettering and had been in use by February, 1911. The first slide fastener, using hooks and eyes, was invented by Whitcomb L. Judson in 1892; and the current toothed type was patented by Colonel Lewis Walker in 1913. - Yours, etc.,
Uaran Mor,
Gaillimh.