Sir, – The sensitive issue of inviting the current US president to the Irish Open in Doonbeg while quietly hoping he is unavailable reminds me of the familiar dilemma of inviting an overbearing aunt to a family wedding. The consequences of exclusion can linger far longer than the discomfort of inclusion.
Tolerance, however, is rarely straightforward. It often requires us to extend courtesies we may not feel are entirely deserved, in the interests of diplomacy, tradition, or simply avoiding a deeper political backlash like tariffs.
Yet, there is also a point at which tolerance risks becoming tacit endorsement, and that is where the real unease lies. It is likely that the attendance at the Irish Golf Open might be larger outside the event than inside.
Ireland has long prided itself on its values openness, respect, and a strong sense of moral independence. Balancing those values against the practicalities of international relationships is not always comfortable. The question is not simply whether an invitation is extended, but what that invitation is seen to represent.
RM Block
Perhaps, like the reluctant wedding guest list, the decision will ultimately reflect a compromise that satisfies no one, but keeps the peace. We have to accept the fact that over 50 per cent of US voters have elected president Trump. We have to accept that 40 million Americans declare an Irish connection. Like the overbearing aunt, we may have no choice but to smile and tolerate. – Yours, etc,
THOMAS MORRIS GORMALLY,
Rathangan,
Co Kildare.
