Sir, – My compliments to Éanna Brophy (An Irishman's Diary, February 9th) in describing the hazards of going for a walk in these lockdown times.
What I find particularly challenging is stepping off the pavement, especially into the cycle lane, thus risking a bicycle lockdown knockdown. It is also hazardous when you step off the pavement and narrowly miss being hit by an electric car which has crept up silently, and snake-like, behind you. The only safe way to step off the pavement is for for the person facing (and seeing) the oncoming traffic to do the stepping aside. – Yours, etc,
TONY CORCORAN,
Rathfarnham,
Dublin 14.
Sir, – Éanna Brophy’s account reflected my own experience of the hazards of walking during lockdown.
I find that it is usually myself, walking alone, who is expected to facilitate the oncoming groups. Many would literally risk bumping into me face to face, rather than countenance the idea of passing by in single file, even in cases where they are the ones facing the oncoming traffic and in a better position to anticipate the dangers of my lurching on to the road.
I estimate that in about 70 per cent of those encounters, not even a nod, a wave or a whimper of acknowledgement are forthcoming from those who have been facilitated. How little would it cost to say thank you? – Yours, etc,
MAIRE NÍ GIOLLA,
Churchtown,
Dublin 16.