RAYMOND White (April 28) thanks the English for all they gave us, or rather had us build for them, and says we should be grateful that we didn’t have worse overlords like the Spanish, who perhaps may have slaughtered us.

IT is reported that births outside of marriage are increasing and it’s widely believed that marriage is now a big “no” for women today, but, why do most commentators feel free to suggest that this is the sole responsibility of the woman?

I READ with interest the “trillion dollar illusion” that was painted on your front page recently.

I READ with interest the Government’s proposals to heap yet more misery on the beleagured Irish motorist.

IT was with utter disbelief I read Fr Eamonn McCarthy’s letter to your paper.

AMONGST the furore over US President Barack Obama’s birth certificate, there will be real chords struck for millions of people across the world.

OUR need for a “smart economy” is often highlighted. However, those who make the calls would seem to be unaware of the training and skills needed to achieve the objectives. Should we have in government persons with the skills needed to understand what is required, we could be more confident of success.

I WISH to protest in the strongest possible terms to the reported proposed expenditure of €250,000 on refurbishing part of the English Market for the forthcoming visit of Queen Elizabeth. It cannot have escaped the council’s notice that this country is struggling with an unprecedented financial crisis.

A HALF-DAY off school? We should all get a full day off to give Mrs Windsor a proper welcome and to show her we have returned to the fold.

I READ the very interesting article by Eoin English about the select group of market traders undergoing media training by Bord Bia and Bord Fáilte to become “market ambassadors” anticipating interview requests by the world’s media.