A chara, – May I make a plea to the GAA to prevail on their players to respect the playing of Amhrán na bhFiann – just like Ireland’s soccer and rugby teams do? Usually the players just stand there, many with disgruntled looks, giving the impression that they wished “this bloody thing” was over.
Last Sunday, at the All-Ireland semi-final, a player actually did a bit of a jog during part of the anthem.
Next Sunday, I expect to see the hurlers discourteously wearing their helmets while being greeted by An tÚachtarán and during the playing of the anthem.
Can they not wait until it’s finished before putting on the helmets? The ultimate solution, of course, is not to play the anthem at all and let An tÚachtarán remain in her seat. – Is mise,