SEAMUS BUTLER,
Madam, - Does anybody train counter staff in our shops, fast-food outlets and pubs? Almost universally in Ireland, when I approach a counter, often after queueing, I am met by the question, "Are you OK?"
Maybe it's the new language of text-speak, which has yet to be included on the official school curriculum, and is probably written "RUOK".
Anyway, it annoys the hell out of me - so much so that I often reply: "No, I'm not OK, but I will be when you serve me." That really throws them! What is wrong with saying: "How can I help you?" - or as several of the older shop keepers in Longford used to say, "What can I do you for?"
Let's strike a blow for courtesy and expunge the RUOK from our service industry. - Yours, etc.,
SEAMUS BUTLER,
Strokestown Road,
Longford.