Sir, - Once again we are facing possible interference with some of Dublin's fine listed buildings with the proposal for the Hilton Hotel in College/Westmoreland Streets.
This situation would never arise if Government were to bring in legislation which would properly protect listed buildings because, as things currently stand, the listing by local authorities is merely recommendatory with virtually no law to back up such recommendations.
Nearing the end of a century of destruction of our architectural and historical heritage and we are no nearer reaching the age of maturity to recognise that we are, for short term gain, destroying the past - and the future - of our towns and cities.
In other states within the EU - proper legislation exists to protect buildings of architectural and historical importance. As we so busily rush towards further European integration, we should pay attention to what our fellow Europeans have been doing in conservation matters, and brings our laws into line with them - or even be imaginative and create some farseeing legislation ourselves! - Yours etc.,
Dargle Road, Drumcondra, Dublin 9.