Madam, - I wonder if I am alone in believing that the IRFU's adoption of Ireland's Call as its anthem was a landmark moment in the history of this troubled island. The IRFU is one of the few organisations which truly crosses the social and political divide in this country. Rugby has allowed Ulster Protestants and Southern Catholics a unique opportunity to stand shoulder to shoulder in support of the same cause.
The Irish international rugby team always had difficulties with finding appropriate anthems. Amhrán na bhFiann was played at home matches in the Republic, not as an anthem to represent the team but to respect the host country. Thus for many years opposing teams playing in Landsdowne Road did not have their anthems played and there were no anthems played at away games. When forced by the pressure of international sporting protocol to have a song to represent the national team the IRFU did something which was truly amazing in an Irish context: it compromised. Instead of trying to impose the symbol of one tradition upon the other, it created a new symbol which all could support.
Personally, I would dearly love to see all 32 counties on this island united as one nation. I believe that this can happen only through respect and compromise. When I hear Ireland's Call I believe I hear the very first notes of that new dawn.
So I ask Fergal Ryan (November 15th), next time he hears Ireland's Call ring out before the start of a rugby match, not to judge the song by its musical merits, but instead hear the voice of a new era of compromise and respect. - Is mise,
Dr MATTHEW SADLIER, Fernhill, North Circular Road, Limerick.