Sir, - While I agree with M.D. Kennedy (August 15th) that the odds of winning the national lottery are not very good, the reality is people always have gambled, and they will continue to gamble, legally or illegally.
As we have seen from other issues, prohibition doesn't work. It is much better to a legal, regulated lottery with the proceeds funding worthy projects, rather than going into the pockets of crooks.
I would also like to suggest a subscriptions service for the Irish lottery. It would raise more funds if Irish people overseas were able to participate.
It may not be a good bet, but unlike alcohol and tobacco it will not give you lung cancer or liver damage. And like all things in moderation, it will do no harm. - Yours, etc.,
Maureen Collins, Polk Street, San Francisco, USA.