Ban solid fuel

I an delighted that smoky coal is to be banned. In fact, I would love to see turf and all solid fuel banned. I know that, for myself and many more, turf is the most affordable heat. A turf fire is also warm and welcoming – but I don’t think it is healthy.

The chimney has to be cleaned three times in the year. And if you put off the chimney cleaning, you can have the terrible experience of putting down a fresh fire and the smoke going all over the house.

Often after cleaning out the fireplace you will blow black stuff out of your nose. And when bringing out ashes on a windy day it can blow back on top of you and destroy your hair and clothes. Also many people have died from chimney fires. And for older people it is a nuisance.

I say ban the lot and help people on social welfare install an alternative heating system that would be safer and healthier.

Maureen Lowndes, Geashill, Co. Offaly.