Replacing the flag and anthem was unpatriotic

TO lay the blame entirely on the IRFU for the considered insult of replacing our national flag and anthem during the rugby World Cup is somewhat unfair.

There are others who must accept their part in this reprehensible, unpatriotic act. Firstly, the Government should have made it quite clear that our anthem and flag should not be compromised under any circumstances.

Secondly, those players honoured by being selected to represent this nation in any sport, and who feel unable to respect our anthem and flag, should do the honourable thing and refuse to play. Those players who represented Ireland at the rugby World Cup and stood to attention for Ireland’s Call must accept some of the blame for the ridicule and odium heaped on this nation. They had an obligation, as Irish citizens, to defend the honour and sovereignty of Ireland.