Do we want to go back to pre-EU isolation?

IN his letter headlined ‘We risk moving from the geographical to the political margins of Europe’, Dr John De Roche (July 7) raised some very powerful arguments.

How often have we heard the old saying, “eaten bread is soon forgotten”?

Since 1973, a primitive, inward-looking, under-developed, compulsively nationalistic country has been transformed into a self-confident, outward-looking, competent people.

We have received cheques, grants, support and encouragement from the EU and our non-existent infrastructure has been built up to modern standards.

Now it looks as if we shot ourselves in the foot and we are back in a state of limbo.

Do we want to forsake our benefactors? Do we want to return to the isolation of pre-EU days? Do we have a wish to become the 51st state of the USA?

Now, in times of economic recession, we need the friendship of our European friends more than ever before.

How can we end our state of limbo? How can we avoid the dark days of isolation and the inordinate obsession with our nearest neighbours?

Jeremiah C O’Sullivan

2 Carolina Terrace

Montenotte

Cork