Sir, – Each year as we approach November 11th, Irish society has to endure sterile and divisive controversy concerning Armistice Day, poppy-wearing and the commemoration of those who died serving with British forces during the first World War. Those Irish who died fighting in both world wars are solemnly remembered in a dignified and respectful manner on our National Day of Commemoration each July. This commemoration is devoid of the jingoism of the British equivalent, Remembrance Day.
It is inconceivable therefore that the incoming manager and assistant manager of the Irish international soccer team, Martin O’Neill and Roy Keane, with poppy in lapels (Front page, November 6th), could be unaware of the symbolism of the poppy in Ireland which has a political subtext. It is even more inconceivable that Martin O’Neill and Roy Keane could be unaware that monies collected from the sale and wearing of the poppy is used to provide material support for British soldiers who fought in the illegal invasion of Iraq and Afghanistan. Even British soldiers involved in the recent Troubles in the North, including the events of Bloody Sunday, are recipients of funds collected from the sale of poppies.
I am uncomfortable with any Irish sporting organisation aligning itself with the British army. I furthermore find it regrettable that the incoming managers of Ireland’s national soccer team would endorse publicly the purchase and wearing of the poppy in Ireland. – Yours, etc,
TOM COOPER,
Delaford Lawn,
Knocklyon,
Dublin 16.
Sir, – Following the photograph of and interview with Martin O’Neill and Roy Keane, I await the trivial comments on why they were wearing poppies. They are employed by ITV, and it is the custom for everyone to wear them in Remembrance Week. – Yours, etc,
CAROLE MOLLOY,
Kerrymount Rise,
Foxrock,
Dublin 18.