Sir, – It is refreshing to see that Mrs Justice Susan Denham felt that measures should be taken to address the issue of the temperature in her workplace ("Chief Justice threatens to cancel court sittings because of cold", April 4th). I have witnessed workers stand in draughts in the retail industry. I have observed pregnant workers deal with appalling conditions not in keeping with health and safety regulations.
I am glad the Chief Justice has spoken out. Heating is a relatively minor issue in the view of most people. But it is about creating a culture where workers’ rights are safeguarded and respected even in an area as minor as heating regulations. It is about being free to communicate that need and having it acknowledged and acted on and not being victimised for speaking out. We all deserve that right, not just the staff who work in the Supreme Court. Well done to Mrs Denham for acting on behalf of the staff there. Lots more of us are in less powerful positions but need similar protection within the regulations. We have had lip-service for long enough. – Yours, etc,
KAY DAVERN,
Dublin 7.
Sir, – Reopening too many cold cases? – Yours, etc,
MICHAEL ROONEY,
Galway.
A chara, – If the judges in the Supreme Court still wore wigs they would at least keep their heads warm. – Is mise,
LOMAN Ó LOINGSIGH,
Dublin 24.
Sir, – I strongly support the pleadings of the Chief Justice for the better regulation of hot air at the Four Courts. – Yours, etc,
JENNY McKELL,
Dublin 16.