Anthem at rugby games should respect all players

IT IS sad that when the two enemy tribes on this island join forces to play international rugby, most nationalists insist that our ‘nationalist’ anthem be sung.

The Irish squad always includes a number of unionists and the team is the only all-Ireland ‘institution’ enthusiastically supported by many unionist people. Yet, we have never offered unionists the opportunity to sing their own anthem, be it The Sash, God save the Queen, or whatever they fancy.

Likewise, we have never thought of incorporating an orange stripe into the green jersey.

It amazes me how restrained the unionist rugby fraternity has been over the years in not telling us where to stuff our ‘nationalist’ anthem. The belated move to something neutral like Ireland’s Call is most welcome.

If we cannot show respect to unionists in these small matters, what hope is there of reconciliation and peace between our two peoples on the larger stage?

Dick Keane

35 Silchester Park

Glenageary

Co Dublin