Madam, - In your edition of January 26th, Anne Lucey reports that farmers in Kerry are warning that sea eagles, if reintroduced to the area, would be of little benefit to tourism.
I can assure the people of Kerry that sea eagles would give a huge boost to local tourism. On the Scottish island of Mull last September I saw at first hand how the local economy benefits greatly from the sea eagle. Many visitors to the island can be seen looking out for sea eagles, when parked or walking along coastal roads. Local shops and guest houses, including farm accommodation, benefit greatly from these visitors.
Sea eagles will be every bit as important to tourism in Kerry generally as the dolphin Fungi is to the Dingle peninsula at present. - Yours, etc,
JOHN LYDEN, Carrigaline, Co Cork.