Sir, - I refer to recent correspondence regarding the playing of the Angelus on RTE. May I offer a solution to the dilemma?
On a recent visit to America, I happened on an electrical appliance shop in a predominantly Arab neighbourhood. On display was a small replica of a Moslem mosque which contained a timer and audio unit. The device could be programmed to play the Moslem call to prayer at specific times during the day.
I suggest that a similar device be made available in Ireland, so that the Angelus could be automatically rung at the appropriate times during the day in every household. A replica of St Peter's Basilica could be used to house the device.
RTE would then be relieved of the responsibility of calling the nation to prayer. The vacant time slot could be filled with a commercial, the additional revenue from which could be used to offset the need to increase the TV licence fee. - Yours, etc.,
Grattan Terrace, Grogan's Road, Wexford.