Sir, In her round up of the weekly papers on September 10th, your columnist, Ms Kathryn Holmquist, reviewing coverage of the All Ireland Hurling Final, writes. "The Wexford People reported the appalling, life threatening violence on a post match bus at 3 a.m. as euphoric supporters returned to the county." A glance through the relevant article reveals that (a) the incident in question took place on the night before the match, (b) the incident occurred on a Nite Link bus from Dublin to Malahide, specifically in the vicinity of Donnycarney, and (c) there is no indication from the article that those involved were hurling supporters of any ilk, let alone Wexford supporters. In fact, the Wexford People reporter specifically counterpoints the ugliness of the event with the uplifting and joyous feelings engendered for Wexfordians by the success of our team.
Fans of all Irish sports have a deserved reputation for good humoured enjoyment of their particular code. This is especially true of GAA followers, who mix and mingle freely before, during and after matches to enjoy the game, the occasion and the camaraderie. It is sad that sloppy reportage should be allowed to sully the reputation of Irish sports fans in general, and Wexford hurling supporters in particular. Yours, etc., Parkview, Wexford.