I am presently a patient in Cork University Hospital. I have received excellent care and treatment from an overworked staff which is mostly the result of absenteeism.

As each minister inherits a team of civil servants, it should be that the minister has the capability and the courage to dispose of the misfits and no can dos - if he sees fit.

The 2007-2008 cock-up cost the taxpayers billions. Way back when the late Brian Lenihan took over the Ministry of Finance, he was amazed to discover the lack of ability and qualifications of the team of civil servants that he inherited.

Managing the economy of a country is similar to managing a large company. The job or duty of a prime minister should be similar to that of a CEO of a company.

The State has laws to regulate the consumption of alcohol because of the dire effects of drinking above the prescribed limit.