Madam, - The Mid-Western Health Board should be congratulated on its initiative in calling for an environmental impact study to be carried out to determine the likely effect of a McDonald's outlet on the health of the host population, particularly the young.
May we look forward to a similar request from the Mid-Western Health Board to Ennis Town Council the next time planning permission for a public house is sought? After all, the council should find out what impact the pub will have on young people's health in the area before it makes any decision on applications. Should such applications be considered against the background of alcohol abuse, especially by young people? - Yours, etc.,
RAYMOND O'REILLY-MALONEY, Aspen Road, Swords, Co Dublin.