Madam, - Following the controversies over open spaces in Dartmouth Square and Stillorgan Heath, the issue of ownership of public open spaces should now be placed on the top of our local authorities' agenda.
We have witnessed a massive increase in development over the past decade. Population growth has greatly increased the demand for houses in our neighbourhoods, putting many of the open spaces under intense pressure from developers. Open space is no less important than any other land use. It is a valuable resource - particularly for the young - and we should recognise that once built upon, it is almost certainly lost to the community forever.
It is crucial that we protect our open spaces and playing fields. We should expect our local authorities to plan effectively and to protect these valuable resources and to provide new open spaces, sporting and recreational facilities. - Yours, etc,
BARRY SAUL, Mount Merrion, Co Dublin.