Sir, - In answer to the test put to us by Kevin Myers (August 23rd) yes I do feel that the terms Eire and Ulster to refer to the two parts of Ireland is inappropriate and sadly, as is so often the case with unionism, deliberately provocative. There is no linguistic sensitivity about the word "Eire" when it is used in an Irish language context. However, as the Constitution makes clear, the name of the state in the English language is Ireland.
When speaking or writing in English, it is normal practice to use the English version of a state's name. One says, "I am going to Germany", not "I am going to Deutschland". Such a reaction as there is, arises when unionists use the Irish word "Eire" in an English language context, when the implication that the word refers to that part of the island formally known as the Irish Free State.
I do not know what agenda Kevin Myers is following, but if our national situation calls for anything, it must include finding ways of referring to one another that maintain dignity and avoid offence. For more than thirty years now, we in this part of the island have been using the term Northern Ireland rather than "the Six Counties" It may not feature in the Constitution, but it is a reasonable and non offensive way in which to refer to that area.
Similarly although the Republic of Ireland may not be a constitutional term, it is clear to what area it refers and it causes no affront. Is it unreasonable to expect Kevin Myers and the Belfast Newsletter, when writing sa Sacs Bheada, to use these two terms which have a wide level of acceptability in all quarters? - Yours etc.,
Acorn Road,
Dublin 16.