Backbench revolt on stag hunting

Madam, – We are told that stag-hunting provides jobs – so that’s alright then

Madam, – We are told that stag-hunting provides jobs – so that’s alright then. I wonder if we re-introduced cock-fighting, dog-fighting and bear-baiting what the job-creation potential would be? And why don’t we consider bull-fighting to boost tourism? – Yours, etc,

ALISON McCOY,

Durrus,

Bantry,

Co Cork.

Madam, – After 77 years on the planet, I sometimes think I will wake up and find I have been having a nightmare. The stag hunting ban is proposed for health and safety reasons (what about the mad bullocks, the frightened sheep and the fox!). I also understand this is only the start, and other outdoor activities may be banned, all by a party that is barely alive. If this is democracy, then as far as I am concerned bring on an army coup as quickly as possible!

I fear for our country, when health and law and order seem peripheral. – Yours, etc,

MICHAEL O’MARA,

Ballygeale,

Patrickswell,

Co Limerick.

Madam, – John Gormley claims that the Ward Union are hunting a farm animal (Home News, June 25th), and that it is not considered acceptable to set dogs in pursuit of any other farm animal. I suppose he has never watched a sheepdog at work, and I wonder if he would find it acceptable if the Ward Union took up hunting the many wild deer that roam the countryside north of Dublin? – Yours, etc,

ANNE STRAHAN,

Drumconrath,

Co Meath.