Sir, – I write to express my dismay at the behaviour of GAA players before a big match during the playing of the national anthem. Matters reached a new low on Sunday at the All-Ireland hurling semi-final. Not only was there the usual exhibition of “St Vitus Dance” by both teams but a player on each team took a swig out of a bottle during the anthem. It is strange that the GAA, an organisation which prides itself on being a leader in matters relating to national pride, should tolerate such behaviour.
I have not seen players of any other sporting code acting in this way. As a matter of fact, I can say without exaggeration that I have seen more respect being exhibited by a pub half-full of intoxicated people when the national anthem is played at closing time following the conclusion of a band performance on the premises. This is something the GAA should tackle without delay. – Yours, etc,
EDMUND CANNON,
Stepaside Hill,
Co Dublin