Sir, – It is becoming increasingly embarrassing to be Irish. We take all we can from the world without any notion of contributing (excepting our wonderful UN peacekeepers). Surely it’s time for us to grow up and give something back to the world? At the very least, drop neutrality, join Nato and at least give the impression that we care about the security of Europe. – Yours, etc,GEORGE PARSONS,Leopardstown,Dublin.

Source: The Irish Times January 26, 2026 06:06 UTC