Mr Philip Pace (Drinking water at Mater Dei, TMID 16 January) must have never been in a hospital abroad where even a glass of water would have to be paid for.

With all due respect, I do believe that Mr Pace should either have directed his guest to the canteen where I am sure that some kind of drink could have been bought. Or, if they had no money on them, they should have gone home.

In Malta, it does not take hours to drive from one place to another, and I am sure than the 10-15 minute drive would not have made such a difference.

But some people want to have it all, and free of charge too.

Pat Cassar

Sliema