Sir, As someone who has spent a fair amount of time in hospital over the last four years, I am writing to add my voice to all who support the nurses in their current negotiations with the Department of Health. I totally agree with the complimentary things the Minister for Health, Mr Noonan, said about them recently. They are probably the best in the world. They are compassionate, dedicated and very highly skilled.
My husband was in and out of intensive care over a long period of time, and recently I had heart surgery. During those times, I saw extremely complicated procedures carried out by the nurses. As well, I found them amazingly patient, deft, seemingly tireless and, when you needed it, there to hold your hand or understand your tears.
Most of us have benefited from this dedicated nursing care at some time in our lives and felt very grateful for it. Let's express this by telling the Government that we support the nurses' need for a more equitable pay structure. Yours, etc., Dalkey, Co Dublin.