Sir, - The decision by the Minister for Tourism, Sport and Recreation to appoint Mr Eddie Jordan as a Sporting Ambassador for Ireland is amazing. Tobacco products kill 6,000 people in Ireland every year. The Minister states that this was one of his best decisions. The Jordan Formula One Team wears the colours of a cigarette company. Is the Minister planning to promote tobacco as a recreational drug in his capacity as Minister for Recreation? He cannot see the bigger picture. Blinded by the smoke, perhaps. And what of the Minister for Health and Children? Has he turned a blind eye or is he too blinded by the smoke? - Yours, etc.,
Dr Declan Bedford, Gainstown, Navan, Co Meath.