Sir, - For those of us who interpret the revised Article 2 as still supporting the doctrine of the all-inclusive one nation, the letter from Liam O Geibheannaigh, (June 8th), highlights the need to honour the (essentially Christian) resolve of the 1916 Proclamation that all the children of the nation be cherished equally. Of course the refusal of the new Presbyterian Moderator to attend a Catholic Mass is indeed a symptom of the bigotry at the heart of the northern troubles, (as perceived from our viewpoint). But for him, the bigotry is a matter of principle and under the auspices of that resolve, he is entitled to a sympathetic understanding, and not automatically judged to be giving "a gratuitous insult" to the Catholic religion and beliefs.
Similarly, the Orangemen, celebrating his Protestant religion and culture and demonstrating his determination to protect them, by insisting on his right to march along disputed routes, also is entitled to protection under the 1916 Proclamation. And, paradoxically, under the Declaration on Religious Freedom of Vatican II. He has made concessions to the Residents - he is now entitled to be sympathetically understood. - Yours, etc., James McGeever,
Kingscourt,
Co. Cavan.