Letter: Re-naming venerable public spaces such as Herzog Park in Dublin is attention-seeking by local politicians who lack stature

Much political energy has been spent recently debating the name of Herzog Park in Rathgar, Dublin.

Any reasonable and sentient human being must deplore Israel's actions in Gaza but re-naming well named and venerable public parks is the counterproductive attention-seeking autograph of local politicians who are short of both notice and stature, and who give too little thought to the wider impact of their actions.

The name given to things does matter.

It is well to recognise that Hamas means Harakat al-Muqawamah al-Islamiyah (Islamic Resistance Movement).

Hamas is an anti-democratic, homophobic, misogynistic, violent and illiberal political entity which is commanded and controlled by a secretive paramilitary leadership structure.

Two years ago it abducted, tortured, raped and murdered hundreds of men, women and children in Israel.

In areas where it is well-seated Hamas rules with an iron fist through the violent intimidation of opponents and subjects alike.

Those who speak out are often murdered or disappeared.

Sinn Fèin has consistently met, befriended and associated with this organisation over the past 30 years and there is more than a touch of "Aithnìonn ciaròg ciaròg eile" about that rather peculiar kind of fellowship.

Michael Deasy, Bandon, Co Cork