Sir, – In "Schools rugby study finds no 'startling evidence' of brain damage" (June 6th), Dr Colin Doherty is quoted as questioning the IRFU's commitment to research while suggesting we had our "heads in the sand" in relation to the impact of concussion. The Irish Rugby Football Union is currently involved in research projects on the issue of concussion with University of Limerick, University of Ulster, TCD, UCD, NUIG, Oxford University and UCC.
It is not possible to fund or participate in every project, but the research being undertaken, together with the ongoing education and information campaigns undertaken by the IRFU, ensures that we continue to lead on the issue of concussive injuries. Concussion is an issue for all sports, and indeed for all facets of play, and the IRFU is confident in its approach to the issue. – Yours, etc,
STEPHEN McNAMARA,
Director
of Communications,
Irish Rugby Football Union,
Lansdowne Road,
Dublin 4.