Sir, - I agree with the sentiments expressed by Daniel D. Lawrence (July 4th), who is "dismayed not to have seen reports of any action by the civil authorities taken against the assailant of Irish Lions out-half Ronan O'Gara" in the match against New South Wales.
It seems to me that rugby, and indeed other contact sports' can provide a shelter for thuggery. Contact sports have a robust culture. Crying to the ref is seen as failure for the victim. Better to suffer the hit apparently unperturbed than admit to physical weakness. This logic has its place, but also its limit.
Unfortunately, administrators, coaches and management in the game (many of whom have been players themselves and are indoctrinated in the same culture), are not sufficiently free to call the limits. They need to know - and every parent who allows their children partake in these sports needs to know - that there is a third party system outside the sport, which is watching and will protect civil rights within the sports arena. - Yours, etc.,
John Bourke, Richview Park, Dublin 6