Sir, - Dr Leslie W. Lucas (April 5th) in defending the attire worn by President Robinson when visiting Pope John Paul, describes him as "head of a Church". This is an incorrect description. The only head of the Catholic Church is Christ. The Pope has the office of His Vicar on Earth.
My view of the Presidential visit (why, by the way, did it take seven years to make it?) is that Mrs Robinson is a Catholic woman. As such, it was fitting that she should appear in the Pope's presence appropriately dressed. Instead, she chose to go bareheaded and adorned with a sprig of mimosa, the emblem of International Woman's Day.
It can be claimed at least, that in doing so, our President sailed under her true colours; for the ethical values she has espoused in public life have been those of international feminism. Those values will not promote the weal of women. - Yours, etc.,
Philipsburgh Avenue,
Baile Bocht,
Dublin 3.