We have a rightful claim to get book back

THE Chatsworth Settlement Trust in Derbyshire is “loaning” the Leabhar Mac Cártaigh Riabhach for exhibition at the Glucksman Gallery in UCC.

We are told that more than 80 years ago it was “transferred” to Chatsworth.

Since this must have been soon after the nation was coming into its own, it seems possible that this might have been to avert a claim to have it restored to where it belonged. UCC president, Michael Murphy, says “it occupied a unique position in the sometimes complex history between Britain and Ireland” and pays tribute to the Duke of Devonshire and his ancestors for preserving it.

The duke might be asked for this wonderful book to be restored to its rightful owners in diplomatic tones without resorting to those of a mealy-mouthed mendicant. For precedent, one might look to those Jews whose claims for works of art stolen by Nazi leaders have been upheld.

Peter O’Shaughnessy

Winchester

England