Sir, - Prof McAleese's ambassadorial skills have been highlighted in her election broadcasts. However she is disliked and distrusted by a large section of the Irish population, the unionists. She has refused to answer important questions regarding her claims to have received "an avalanche" of support from unionists. Let her name her unionist supporters so that the Irish electorate can evaluate for themselves her credibility as a putative "bridgebuilder".
Equally, the information regarding her links with the SDLP. and her contact with Sinn Fein should have been placed before the electorate by Prof McAleese herself. The electorate is entitled to a full disclosure of her political career to date and should not have to rely on leaked documents to get a true picture of her leanings.
Her behaviour to journalists asking legitimate questions in Galway was unusual for a presidential candidate. Phlanxed by a group of "minders" who physically brushed people aside, she resolutely disdained to be interviewed. Adi Roche's response to difficult and sensitive challenges from the media can be contrasted with Prof McAleese's behaviour. Adi Roche did not evade the issues. She displayed a sincerity and openness befitting a holder of the highest office in the land. - Yours, etc.,
From Colm O'Doherty
Nicholas Street, Cork.