Some of the commentators on the possible outcome of moves to form a government have referred to similar situations that were solved in various ways in 1987, 1989 and 1981-2. It might be instructive also to advert to varied scenarios in 1948, 1951 and 1954.

MARY DUNDON joins a long list of seasoned political commentators who would claim that, in light of the local elections, Sinn Féin are now a “force to be reckoned with” (Irish Examiner, July 5).