Sir, - Richard Ashton (November 12th) says the banning of smoking in pubs in parts of the US has led to a loss of profits. He may be correct, but this is not the issue. The issue is that passive smoking is recognised as a dangerous and serious health hazard. I have no objection to anyone who wishes to smoke, but I object to being forced to inhale other people's smoke.
People are entitled to breathe smoke-free air in their workplaces and in enclosed public areas such as restaurants and pubs. If the future Minister for Health fails to legislate accordingly, I will have no option but to take that Minister to the High Court. This is not a threat. This is a promise. - Yours, etc.,
Micheβl ╙ Nuallβin, Monkstown, Co Dublin.