Sir, – Your editorial(August 13th) quite rightly dismisses the Minister for Health's sticking-plaster solution to the crisis in the public health system. You identify the lack of capacity, and the inefficiencies in the system's dysfunctional culture. This suggests there is an urgent need for a complete overhaul of the Department of Health and the HSE. This is not rocket science. Other small countries manage to run efficient health systems, but for some reason a succession of health ministers have proved incapable of taking the necessary firm and resolute action. What are the salient factors that are preventing Ireland tackling this problem?
In the meantime, the private sector should be immediately invited to tender for some of the procedures which have given rise to the horrendous public hospital waiting lists. – Yours, etc,
MIKE CORMACK,
Blackrock, Co Dublin.