Anti-hunt is a class war
Sunday December 27 2009
Sir -- I wonder why, in recent times, the issue of hunting with hounds has become such an emotive topic in this country.
Perhaps it is linked to the rise of the anti-hunt lobby in Britain although I'm not sure why that should be replicated in Ireland.
Britain is particularly ashamed of its colonial past and anything that is perceived in the public eye as being connected to that past. Thus hunting, with its ancient class connotations, is an easy target for both the traditional class warriors of the left and perhaps, the larger swell of middle class liberal guilt that has found popular expression in New Labour. It is as much about class hatred as it is about animal welfare.
It will not benefit Ireland to become as safe and bland as New Labour has rendered the British countryside. The public argument against stag hunting in this country is biased and hysterical. Country life differs greatly from suburban dwelling.
Nevertheless, tolerance is the foundation of a democratic society. The decision to ban stag hunting in this country is not a victory for democracy. It is a consequence of political ransom. Rarely have government partners been so ideologically mismatched as Fianna Fail and the Greens.
The anti-hunting agenda has gathered momentum in recent years. Their opinion is valid and debate is welcome. If only it were reasoned, balanced and mature. On this issue, it is not. It is driven by the sort of shrill, condescending, self righteous spleen that emotionally strangles debate, tolerance and diversity at birth. It is the sound of jackboots marching.
The proposed ban on stag hunting is an attack on country life and a victory for mediocrity. It will render our island a little less diverse, a little less interesting, a little more legislated. All we need do now is establish some sort of useless, bland quango for "health and safety in country affairs".
Brian Foley,
Phibsborough, Dublin 7
