Madam, - Vodafone's inclusion of a bullfighting scene in its current television advert is both insensitive and offensive.
The footage of a matador taunting a bull was used, the company maintains, because "bullfighting is seen as an important part of Spain's tradition and culture".
This may be the view of lazy advertising executives stuck in the past but it's certainly not based on any modern truth. Bullfighting is now to Spain what hunting and coursing are to Ireland - an offensive anachronism which most want ended.
A Gallup opinion poll carried out last year leaves no doubt whatsoever that Spaniards are overwhelmingly rejecting this horror show. A mere 7 per cent expressed support for the activity while up to 82 per cent said they had no interest in it. Vodafone should recognise that torturing animals is cruelty, not culture, and immediately cut this scene. - Yours, etc,
PHILIP KIERNAN,
Irish Council Against Blood Sports,
Mullingar.