Letters to the Editor: Being an ‘outlier’ has its benefits in a pandemic

There is much to be celebrated in our response to Covid-19 but we must also look further afield to achieve equitable distribution of vaccines

Being an ‘outlier’ may contribute to lawmaking, as did Ireland’s progressive move in pioneering a ban on indoor smoking in March 2004. Picture: Jonathan Brady/PA 

Perhaps those interest groups wedded to the mantra that Ireland is the ‘outlier of Europe’ due to our cautious approach generally, and more specifically because indoor dining and drinking is not yet permitted, should consider a few pertinent facts as a reality check on this assertion.

Being an ‘outlier’ breaks no law. On the contrary, it may contribute to lawmaking, as did Ireland’s progressive move in pioneering a ban on indoor smoking in March 2004.