Sir, - I would like to congratulate Mary McAleese on her victory and ask that she consider appointing her defeated opponents to the Council of State. For the first time in my memory I felt that all possible facets of modern Irish existence were represented in the election. From the returning diaspora to grey power, from radical concern to European consensus. All contributed with their integrity and their innate intelligence and each could continue to enhance this country's development.
It is my understanding that the President has five personal appointees to the council and it is my firm belief that she could look far and not find more suitable colleagues. - Yours, etc.,
Roger Derham,
Blake's Hill, Galway.