M3 ruling reveals a nation of philistines

THE recent announcement by Environment Minister Dick Roche that the tolled M3 motorway will proceed is probably one of the worst planning decisions ever made by an Irish Minister for the Environment.

We will be seen as the philistine capital of Europe - a nation that has sold its soul for profit. Our green image, touted at tourism fairs worldwide, is lost forever.

To add insult to injury, Mr Roche stated that “the directions which I have given represent a measured approach. They are both comprehensive and onerous. They protect heritage.”