Madam, - I write to commend you on the recent articles in the Science Today section by Dr Claire O'Connell.
These have succeeded in being an excellent balance of science information and education on research topics.
Everyone in Ireland needs to appreciate that research is a vital activity; without it the future of public health is grim. Today's research generates tomorrow's healthcare and medicines, so it is vital that the public be aware of and support research activities in Ireland.
Historically, there has been resistance to explaining the complexity of science to the public. However, no such resistance exists with financial reporting, where over time the public has developed a good understanding of topics such as stock market performance, pension and hedge funds - ultimately, because these affect our lives.
Science and research deserve no less attention. Therefore, it is wonderful to see the tide turning in favour of an increased focus on science without losing any of the important (and interesting) detail.
I look forward to reading more of the same. - Yours, etc,
Dr PATRICK CORLEY,
Cancer Research Ireland,
Northumberland Road,
Dubin 4.