Remembering this gesture of ‘immense respect’
JOSS Miller (Opinion, 3.2.21) recalls the 2008 game in Limerick between Munster and New Zealand.
He describes the encounter as a
‘‘rare beacon of light showing that common courtesy and respect will always be greater than any game’’.
I’d like to draw attention to the 2016 game at the same venue between Munster and the Maori All Blacks.
Preceding the Maori haka, captain Ash Dixon stepped forward and laid a black jersey on the turf bearing the initials ‘‘AF’’ in memory of Munster coach and former Ireland No 8 Anthony Foley, who had died three weeks previously. After the haka, Dixon then presented this jersey to Foley’s sons.
This act of immense respect and generosity is remembered as such among the rugby community in Ireland.
I echo Mr Miller’s conclusion that some sporting moments encapsulate something greater than the sport itself. Philip Crowe Dublin, Ireland
Police
REPORTS in your newspaper of two police officers appearing on criminal charges (ODT, 20.1.21), then of two officers whose conduct and excessive use of pepper spray and foul language (ODT, 22.1.21) was disgusting, must raise high concerns to the public, and ring alarm bells.
I would suggest a more robust and thorough screening of all applicants for recruitment is very necessary as this type of behaviour is unacceptable.
As well, closer supervision of officers by their superiors is also needed.
Bad conduct of officers can never be tolerated nor swept under the carpet.
Clive McNeill North East Valley