Madam, - While I do not disagree with the proposed smoking ban per se, I do wonder about the obvious extension of its logic. Carbon monoxide released by car exhausts is both dangerous to our health and our environment.
The fumes released from cars lead indirectly to the death of countless people, many of whom do not drive a car. The fumes are one of the major factors contributing to global warming and its disastrous effect on climate.Many who suffer the worst of these effects live in countries where car usage is lowest.
People might argue that driving is a necessity, whereas smoking is a needless luxury, but we simply perceive driving as a necessity because of the economic choices we have made. It is still a luxury. I wonder if the Minister will now propose banning vehicles, lest more people die of passive driving.
- Yours, etc.,
KEITH McGOVERN, Lourdesville, Kildare Town.
Madam, - I vehemently resent being patronised by the Health Minister and others, or treated as a victim.
I have smoked cigarettes for many years and much enjoy it, especially in company. I am aware of, and take responsibility for, the possible health consequences.
I am highly considerate to non-smokers and look forward to better air conditioning in pubs, hotels and restaurants so that we can all socialise together even more happily.
I also resent the implication that pubs, hotels and restaurants are there for the benefit of people who work there. Wrong. They are there for the customers' benefit.
No one is forced to take a job where they do not like the atmosphere, and the risks of passive smoking are being deliberately exaggerated. - Yours, etc.,
HARRY DAVIES, Radharc na Rún, An Spidéal, Co na Gaillimhe.