Madam, - I noted with interest the article by Kathy Sheridan on commuters in The Irish Times of May 6th, entitled "The Great Escape". Regrettably, it seems many commuters do not escape the effects of tobacco smoke.
The writer says: "The most serious complaint by far [from commuters\] would be about cigarette smoke".
ASH Ireland receives numerous complaints each year about the blatant disregard for non-smoking rules on both trains and buses. Most complainants express the view that CIE staff take little interest in this crucially important health issue.
Perhaps the Minister for Transport should look more closely at a culture within CIE of ignoring non-smoking legislation. Surely Irish residents and visitors should be able to use public transport without this significant threat to their health and comfort. - Yours, etc.,
VALERIE COGHLAN, Administrator, ASH Ireland, Dublin 4.