Tackle other issues first, then ban smoking in cars

IF Health Minister James Reilly decides on a giant leap forward with a proposal to ban smoking in cars, he’s availing of a cheap fix for an ironclad winner at the wrong time.

It would be far better if he first concentrated on reducing the waiting lists for urgent treatment at hospitals and in providing a fair and equitably located emergency medical service for all.

Should that entail a helicopter on standby or localised fully equipped medical depots — so be it.

In the process of having the smoking ban implemented in pubs and restaurants, a former Minister for Health — Michéal Martin had already completed the groundwork on the content and hazards of cigarette smoke.

Possibly some statistics on his work and the lives that were consequently saved are already being prepared.

Dr Reilly should bide his time, working on other major issues, then go for a total ban on smoking in cars.

He is certain to succeed, leaving his mark as effectively as his predecessor and possibly setting himself up for next Taoiseach.

As a reformed heavy smoker, I’m only too aware — hindsight is a wonderful educator. Puffing lethal cigarette fumes in the confines of an average size car (simply a glorified tin box), with other humans inside, young or old, is sheer lunacy.

James Gleeson

Thurles

Co Tipperary