An article in Southern Report in the editions of December 14th said that Cork University Hospital had announced it was setting up the first hospital-based podiatrist service for diabetics in the health services. We are advised by the Department of Podiatry in Tallaght Hospital that, in fact, such a service has been in operation there since June 1998.

In the editions of December 16th, a report on the reform of local government said the Minister for the Environment, Mr Dempsey, had "effectively announced the postponement of all three reforms [payments to councillors, directly elected lord mayors and an end to the dual mandate] until 2004". In fact, the Minister did not set any date for the introduction of salaries to members of local authorities.

Where errors occur it is the policy of The Irish Times to correct or clarify as soon as practicable. Readers may contact the Readers' Representative's Office by telephoning 01679 2022 from 11 a. m. - 4 p.m. Monday to Friday.

Outside these times they may contact the Duty Editor.