Madam, - Your correspondent Aidan Carroll's (April 5th) ardent defence of John Deasy's recent abominable behaviour in the Dáil members' bar is absolutely astonishing. To describe the smoking ban as "this piece of repressive legislation" is even more incredible and obviously speaks volumes as to Mr O'Carroll's dubious personal value system.
Mr Deasy's request to the Dáil members' bar staff to open an emergency/fire door in order to facilitate the member's convenient exit to smoke a cigarette is the very antithesis of being "reasonable". It could more accurately be described as unwise at best and arrogant at worst.
The "general drinking public" as Mr O'Carroll describes them, have already decided how to respond to this piece of noble and innovative legislation - that is in a mature, responsible and law-abiding manner as befits civilised human behaviour in any enlightened society. The suggestion by the author that "serious violence" will ensue "in other bars if members of staff behave in the same manner as the person in the Dáil", is simply ludicrous and a grossly irresponsible and inciteful comment.
This Dáil member was accorded the justice which he richly deserved both by the Dáil bar staff and ultimately by his party leader. Congratulations to all involved in demonstrating such sterling courageous responsibility and civil leadership. Above all, well done to the Minister for Health for achieving so much in promoting good health and saving lives. - Yours, etc.,
PATRICK J O'BRIEN, Associate Lecturer Emeritus in Nursing, Department of Health Sciences, Trinity College, Dublin 2.