Micheál Martin’s next challenge

ALONG, I am sure, with most other GPs I applaud Health Minister Micheál Martin’s smoking ban. Our collective health as a nation can only benefit.

Also, as a GP who practised in Kilkee before moving to Cobh, I know the types of emergencies that can develop in a summer resort far from the nearest casualty service.

The minister's decision to keep the Ennis hospital casualty service open as a 24-hour rather than a 9 to 5 service also deserves praise and recognition for the difficult political decision it must have been.