Sir, – There is much merit in Michael McDowell’s thoughtful article (“Restoring historic buildings beats letting them crumble”, Opinion, March 9th).
One need only look at the exemplary work carried out at Holy Cross and Ballintubber abbeys and the partially restored roof at Abbeyknockmoy.
On Iona, the restoration there is a powerful example of what can be achieved. The hall of the Vicar’s Choral has already been restored at Cashel.
That, and the stunning conservation of Cormac’s Chapel (also on the Rock) serve as templates for future restoration throughout the island.
– Yours, etc,
GERRY LAWLESS,
Ballinasloe,
Co Galway.
Sir, – Michael McDowell rightly praises the work of Peter Pearson as a conservationist and restorer (Opinion, March 9th).
Your readers might be interested in viewing a current exhibition showcasing Peter’s work as a painter, historian and conservationist in the dlrLexIcon, Dún Laoghaire library in Co Dublin.
The exhibition includes examples of the extraordinary range of architectural salvage which Peter has collected from local building sites over many years – beautiful artefacts and all with a story.
– Yours, etc,
SEAMUS CANNON,
Monkstown,
Co Dublin.