The appearance of a sheep and her new-born lambs on The Late Late Show last week generated much controversy . Sadly, as is usually the case when farm animal abuse is discussed, much of the coverage on mainstream and social media has turned into the facile ‘urban versus rural’ debate.

Dr Keith Gaynor’s comments about mental wellbeing, based on his new book, “Protecting Mental Health”, place welcome emphasis on humans as social beings, living in communities, families and societies (Irish Examiner, 26 January).

The spate of rural crime still continues. It has even been reported that some of these gangs may be using drones to check out farmhouses for future robbing.

Is it time for the IRFU to step outside their local power zone and make a few bold business decisions for the welfare and future of the professional players under their control?