Sir, – Regarding the Minister for Health’s proposal to introduce a ban on smoking in public parks and on beaches (Home News, April 21st). The Minister should think carefully before intruding in smokers’ lives in such a radical fashion. Many smokers enjoy a walk in the park or a stroll beside the sea. As we enjoy a windy climate for the most part, smoking outdoors is unlikely to cause any appreciable pollution. In my experience most smokers are considerate of non-smokers while smoking in a public space. Treating smokers as pariahs in this proposed way would most likely be counter-productive in regard to their overall health as it would discourage them from getting exercise in the open air. Perhaps the Minister considers their health would be better served by them sitting at home on the sofa watching television. – Is mise,