I’ll continue to use my surname with pride

I REFER to the letter by Denis Healy (Irish Examiner, August 11) in relation to the spelling of my name.

In relation to An Leitriú Shimplí as devised by the people mentioned in my original reply to Mr Healy, I can absolutely confirm to him that all letters of the English alphabet were used in this particular form of spelling.

My grandfather, Shán Ó Cuív, adapted this form for his name which was carried on by my father, and which is the name registered as my father’s surname on my birth cert.

I am proud to be one of the third generation to carry on this form of the name, as it is a reminder of the work done by Shán Ó Cuív and others to develop the Irish language and modernise it in the early part of the 20th century.

Of course the form a person chooses for their name is absolutely their own prerogative, and name forms have changed dramatically over the years.

For example, your correspondent uses the form Denis Healy. One could ask the question, similar to the question he asked about Ó Cuív, as to why he doesn't use Donncha Ó hÉalaí or Donncha Ó hÉalaithe?

In the meantime I will continue to use with pride the surname bestowed on me at birth by my parents.

Éamon Ó Cuív, TD

Aire Gnóthaí Pobail

Tuaithe agus Gaeltachta

43-49 Mespil Road

Dublin 4