A chara, – You published two thought-provoking articles relating to violence in Ireland. Jennifer O’Connell (“Bill Cosby story highlights troubling societal attitudes to consent,” November 24th) wrote about the issue of rape and consent; Úna Mullally wrote about men as hidden victims of violence (Opinion, November 24th).
Census 2011 reported that in 2008, 81.8 per cent of homicide victims were men; 79.9 per cent of serious assault victims were men; 88.1 per cent sexual assault victims were women.
The UN estimates that deaths resulting from intentional homicide amounted to a total of 437,000 in 2012. Every one of these crimes is abhorrent.
On the same day, another story, too late for your print edition, sounds a jarring note for me: Katie Taylor’s fifth world boxing title.
All the reaction I have heard so far is universal acclaim. It is generally seen, it seems by most, as an outstanding achievement. What I say will be, I am sure, an unpopular minority view, but I know I am not alone, and it should have some voice.
The idea of two human beings, men or women, physically beating one another for sport – I find this abhorrent. Yes, they undertake it voluntarily, but I still find it abhorrent.
The fact that the participants wear protective gear and that the referee can intervene alleviates harmful results, but it does not change the essential picture.
People may say that it is not the intention to inflict harm; but then I hear a commentator on radio speak admiringly of a blow to the head given by Katie Taylor to Yana Allekseevna in the third round. It is perhaps the nearest thing we have today to the gladiatorial contests of the past.
We may admire the skill and prowess and dedication of Katie Taylor, but it is misdirected.
President Michael D Higgins offered his congratulations: “All of us are so proud of her.” Not all.
I realise many will see my opinion as ungracious, but I hope for the day when all such “sports” are found unacceptable, although it probably will not happen in my lifetime. Amid all the acclaim for Katie Taylor’s achievement, perhaps you would also allow some space for whatever minority of your readers who may wish to have a contrary opinion expressed. – Is mise, etc, PÁDRAIG McCARTHY, Sandyford, Dublin 16.