Madam, - It is interesting to note that St Bricin's military hospital, in use by Defence Forces personnel, has been deemed unsuitable for civilian patients without major investment in existing facilities (The Irish Times, 20th April).
A similar situation occurred some years ago when Spike Island in Cork harbour was being assessed as a potential prison. It was found that the accommodation and facilities provided for the then Naval Service Training Unit were far below the standard suitable for criminals.
It puts into context all the old guff we hear from politicians about how much they admire and respect Defence Forces personnel. - Yours, etc.,
ANTHONY SHERIDAN, Cobh, Co Cork.