Sir, – The headline on the front page of The Irish Times (December 21st) “Warning over champagne cork-related eye injuries” is in sharp contrast to that on page two: “People queue at Capuchin Centre for food vouchers from 2am.”
This juxtaposition is a stark reminder of the widening economic gaps in society. Both are first-world problems, but at the opposite ends of the scale! – Yours, etc,
PAUL OWENS,
Baldoyle,
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Dublin 13.
Sir, – Dr Muiris Houston warns us of the danger of eye injury from high velocity flying corks when opening bottles of champagne (News, December 21st).
There is a simple and effective solution: use a sturdy pair of pliers. This gives you a firm grip on the cork and the bottle opens easily with a slight rotation. The cork doesn’t fly anywhere because it’s firmly held in place by the pliers.
I have friends who swear by the sabre method, and I admit it looks more impressive, but the humble pliers is the best tool for the job! – Yours, etc,
CIARAN TAYLOR,
Donard,
Co Wicklow.