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The growing problem of bad spectator etiquette

Standing spectators and phone recordings spoil costly sporting and cultural events

Letters to the Editor. Illustration: Paul Scott
The Irish Times - Letters to the Editor.
Thu Apr 02 2026 - 06:00 • 1 MIN READ

Sir, – The annoyance experienced by Fionnuala Ward (Irishwoman’s Diary, March 31st) when her view of the performers was obstructed by the bad manners of the person in front of her recording the singers on their phone is replicated regularly at big football games when the spectator “seated” in front of one insists on regularly standing to see the action. These obstructions occur invariably at the most exciting moments of the game and cause frustration and annoyance.

Attendance at important games is a very expensive luxury and one should be allowed to enjoy the spectacle without hindrance. We will refrain from mentioning the people who are unable to resume their seats before the commencement of the second half of the game, as they have to finish their expensive drinks. – Yours etc,

MICHAEL GLEESON.

Killarney,

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