Madam, – According to the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland (Home News, November 3rd), 2,000 pubs are predicted to close in the next 10 years. A chance exists, therefore, that we Irish may begin to wean ourselves off alcohol. Can I dream that hospitals may start treating people who suffer from non-drinks related ailments between Thursday and Sunday? Is it possible that alcohol-related road deaths may decline to less horrifying levels? Could it be that the endless talent wasted on alcohol in Ireland might one day fulfil its potential? My compliments to the Drinks Industry Group of Ireland and its report for offering the country hope in these dark, troubled times! – Yours, etc,