We need an anthem for the whole island

YOUR columnist Fergus Finlay (Irish Examiner, February 20) did us a great favour by highlighting the violence inherent in many national anthems, especially Amhrán na bFhiann and La Marseillaise.

It is unacceptable to have national anthems that glorify killing associated with sporting events. They are from another age, and it is not just that people here do not know the lyrics in Irish, but they feel embarrassed to sing them.

Having grown up under the apartheid regime in South Africa I know the real intent behind songs and anthems glorifying violence.