Sir, - It has been alleged that the RDS was among the promoters of the Four Seasons Hotel in Ballsbridge. I do not know if this allegation is well founded, but if true it is but a further manifestation of how far the RDS has departed from the ideals of its founders.
Eight years ago my wife and I felt obliged to resign after 40 years because we were not prepared to remain members of an organisation which is responsible for the level of noise pollution caused by pop concerts held in the jumping enclosure. I was informed that "the changes taking place at the RDS are essential for the continuing success of the Society". I also was informed that "it is important for the Society to meet the demands of the market and thus to remain competitive in the marketplace".
I wonder if we would have the Veterinary College, the Botanic Gardens, the National Museum and the National Art Gallery if "the marketplace" had been allowed to determine the course set by the RDS in more enlightened and less commercial days.
I think it is a pity that the society appears to have lost the altruistic and non-commercial attitude which first attracted me to it almost 50 years ago. - Yours, etc.,
J. Niall McGovern, Merlyn Park, Ballsbridge, Dublin 4.