This distressing incident clearly highlights the need for increased police presence in our streets, which requires more investment, resources, and support. However, the root of the problem is much deeper, as no police force can force people to do the right thing. The question remains: how do we explain such a heartless attack? Some may attribute it to the decline of spiritual influences in Irish society, but shouldn’t we all have an inherent sense of ethics that guides us towards what is right? Others argue that more education is needed, but as a former teacher, I know that educators already strive to instill respect, care, and compassion in their students. Societal factors such as poverty, low self-esteem, lack of recreational facilities, and insufficient support for struggling families also contribute to this issue, within the context of urban drug culture. However, none of these factors can justify such a violent attack. Ultimately, this incident boils down to senseless brutality and a complete lack of empathy. While Mr. Termini fights for his life in the hospital, there is a distressed family left behind in the United States. It is imperative that we offer a sincere apology to this unfortunate victim and his family on behalf of the millions of decent Irish people who are appalled and ashamed by his ordeal. These criminals do not represent who we are as a nation. However, sympathy alone is not enough. Perhaps, in this particular instance, the Irish State should provide financial assistance to help this family reunite with their relative and be there to support him during this difficult time. After all, Ireland is known for its warm hospitality and “céad míle fáilte”—or is it? Sinéad Boland Kilmacanogue, Co Wicklow Appropriate punishment will give lawbreakers plenty to think about The shortage of police officers is just one contributing factor to the growing lawlessness in our society. Weak liberalism and overly permissive parenting have resulted in unruly teenagers roaming the streets and causing harm to those older than them. We no longer have a cohesive society as so few parents serve as worthy role models. The foundation of any functioning society is a respectable home. It is time to move past mere talk and start imposing punishments that delinquents will remember. Dr. Florence Craven Bracknagh, Co Offaly It is concerning when changing roads means turning onto a different road When the English changed the Irish placenames to their English counterparts, it caused significant harm to Irish culture. Brian Friel’s play “Translations” depicts this loss. Since then, the road signs have changed as well. While city streets retain their English names, country roads in the South now have signs with only one letter followed by numbers. These signs are not ideal for those going on walks. I walked from Donegal to Knock, and it was disheartening to constantly turn off the R320 onto the R323. In my hometown of Glenavy, such a walk would have taken me from Ballymote road to Carnkilly road to Scroggy road. The South’s initial loss may have blinded them to a second loss, one that they have inflicted upon themselves. Dominic Gallagher Glenavy, Co Antrim The Girls in Green can teach their male counterparts a thing or two about attitude In response to David Ryan’s criticism of the football played at the Women’s World Cup, I would like to present two points in defense of our national team, particularly their performance in their 1-0 loss against Australia. These points demonstrate that they deserve more credit than Mr. Ryan is giving them. Firstly, throughout the match, none of our Girls in Green resorted to “simulation”. They did not dive or try to waste time in order to secure a free kick. Instead, they focused on playing the game. Secondly, after conceding a penalty and going a goal down, the team continued to attack relentlessly in search of an equalizer. They did not give up or allow their morale to deteriorate. Unfortunately, I cannot say the same for our men’s national team at this time. Sean Slattery Newport, Co Tipperary Singling out the quality of women’s football is unfair and insulting to the players David Ryan claims that the football at the World Cup has been boring to watch and suggests that any decent boys’ under-15 side would outperform the national teams featured in the tournament so far. This statement is not only disrespectful, but it also fails to recognize that we cannot judge the ability and entertainment value of women’s football based on the men’s game. Boys and men have been immersed in football for generations, while women have had to fight for recognition and opportunity. Let’s give the women the credit they deserve, as their standards and skill levels are constantly improving. I have witnessed many boring men’s football matches, so there is no need to single out the women’s teams. Aidan Roddy Cabinteely, Dublin 18 Proper analysis of hurling would reveal the need for more display of real skills There has been a disappointing lack of media analysis following the All-Ireland hurling final last Sunday. Journalists merely settled for the notion that Limerick prevailed due to their size, power, athleticism, and ability to wear down their opponents before capitalizing on crucial moments. However, there is a recent trend in hurling, not limited to Limerick, where players engage in frontal collisions and use hand passes to teammates in open spaces. We need to see a greater emphasis on the mesmerizing artistry of hurling. It would be beneficial to encourage debate around this topic, as it has been lacking thus far. Declan O’Donovan Dalkey, Co Dublin
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