Unity, flags and emblems

A chara, – Newton Emerson suggests a new flag of a united Ireland consisting of a harp on a blue background ("If the price of Irish unity was a new flag, would Sinn Féin agree to it?", Opinion and Analysis, August 19th). As a Leinster rugby supporter, I can only concur, but fear the other provinces might have something to say about it! Instead of reuniting Ireland, we could be dividing it into four opposing provinces. – Yours, etc,

FRANK SCHNITTGER,

Blessington,

Co Wicklow.

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Sir, – I found Newton Emerson’s suggestion for the flag of an united Ireland interesting: “A new flag should be the harp on a blue background.” I have one modification which would make it perfect. The harp should be played by a red hand! – Yours, etc,

TERRY PATTISON,

Dún Laoghaire,

Co Dublin.

Sir, – Speaking as one of those who, sober, voted for Dustin the Turkey to represent Ireland in a song contest, we should perhaps pause and reflect on the wisdom of putting the design of a new Irish flag to a popular vote. – Yours, etc,

SEÁN MacCANN,

Trillick,

Co Tyrone.

Sir, – Doesn’t Newton Emerson’s suggestion already exist as the presidential standard? – Is mise,

RICHARD FROGGATT,

Belfast.

Sir, – I’m sure that a green, white and orange Union Jack would tick all the right boxes. – Yours, etc,

MICHAEL NASH,

Carrickmines,

Dublin 18.