Sir, – We are seeing and hearing some high-quality television and radio advertisements promoting holidays in Northern Ireland, and it’s true indeed that the North is a very beautiful place.
However, maybe if the creators of this very attractive temptation to visit the area would take a little look around and see what the residential welcoming committee has prepared for anyone travelling through the hundreds of towns and villages in Northern Ireland on route to their final destination, they might think again.
Because much of their good work is being dismantled by blatant sectarian bigotry with the proliferation of red, white and blue footpaths along with a plethora of Union Jacks leaving the unsuspecting tourist feeling distinctly intimidated by this showy and aggressive display of loyalism.
While many in Northern Ireland are extremely welcoming and hospitable to a fault, they are being let down by the remnants of tribalism that smacks of fear and loathing.
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The truth is that you simply don’t see this south of the Border – or indeed on the British mainland.
– Yours, etc,
EAMON KEARNEY,
Baldoyle,
Dublin 13.