Taoiseach's European credentials

Madam, - In the wake of his undoubted success in securing a deal on the EU constitution, public opinion seems to favour giving…

Madam, - In the wake of his undoubted success in securing a deal on the EU constitution, public opinion seems to favour giving the Taoiseach a wider field in which to exercise his negotiating skills.

As Taoiseach, there is a great deal to admire about his energy, enthusiasm and ubiquity. But there are a few questions about his suitability for the job of president of the European Commission. Most commentators would agree this calls for a vision of Europe not so far expounded by Mr Ahern.

Also, the holder of the office must be able to exercise discipline and control. This Bertie has signally failed to do in his own Cabinet, which tends to go off in all directions. - Yours, etc.,

JOHN F. FALLON, Boyle, Co Roscommon.