Sir, - In recent weeks the hunting fraternity has been declaring its "wholehearted support" for farmers and their way of life. "The hunter and the farmer should be friends" is the slogan on the lips of those who ride to hounds.
Tally-ho fans are reacting to a spate of hunt ban notices in the provincial press. They are anxious to improve relations with landowners who allow them to hunt on their property. James E. Norton, of the Masters of Fox Hounds Association, has said his members are "fully behind farm families" and grateful for their co-operation in the battle against their common enemy, the fox.
Given the shortage of fodder for livestock, and the decline in farm incomes, I am sure farmers will be heartened to know that hunters are sympathetic to their plight. Unfortunately, words are cheap. Could the Redcoats not offer practical help to an industry in crisis? They could, for example, pay farmers for the privilege of hunting over their lands.
Such remuneration would go some way towards easing the hardship wrought by inclement weather and economic factors. There are over 70 mounted hunts in Ireland, the numerous footpacks and unregistered baiting clubs. None of these has a divine right to encroach on a farmer's land.
Irish hunters belong to a well-heeled, close-knit confraternity. many of them are bankers, auctioneers, judges, and business tycoons. They could easily afford to reimburse their friends down on the farm.
The damage caused to crops, livestock, and other farm property makes such a "tally-ho levy" all the more desirable from a landowner's point of view. Aside from the visible effects of an incursion by horses and hounds, hunting plays a major role in the spread of disease and parasitic infections.
The farmer deserves more than a clap on the back for putting his livelihood at risk. Let the hornblowers provide him with this additional source of income. Fairweather friends on horseback are of little use at any time. In winter, they are as welcome as a fodder crisis! -Yours, etc.,
John Fitzgerald, Callan, Co Kilkenny.