Sir, - What a sad representative the Irish Church has, through the presence of Fr. David O'Hanlon in Rome. A man, so obviously caught up in his own personal hatred of President Mary Robinson that he sees offence where none is present (as per Vatican Senior Spokesman Dr. Joaquin Navarro Vals). When criticised by some fellow priests, he then attempts to belittle them as " .. a cabal of brother priests whom I can only regard - alas! - as Aras Catholics (if not Aras lickers.)" language that is incredibly offensive. His conspiracy theories . . . as is widely rumoured in Irish circles here in Rome" suggest a man who has lost the run of himself.
I am left wondering as to why he is at college in Rome? Could it be, I hope, that it is to limit the damage that such a dangerous man could do when placed among the ordinary people of his own diocese? I would suggest that he be left there.
Thankfully, the church I experience in Ireland is, generally, a more tolerant, a more caring and a more pragmatic one than the church reflected in the views of Fr. David. Perhaps, having read the ranting of Fr. David, we should be more grateful than ever.
Yours sincerely,
26 Templeroan Park,
Knocklyon, Dublin 16