Kilkenny Hurling star Colin Fennelly has landed himself in hot water with the Defence Forces.
The former soldier said Defence Force members had "nothing to do" and that his time there was marked by "absolute boredom".
The Defence Forces said they were "surprised and disappointed" to hear the comments from a former member.
It said the army prides itself on its members' dedication and sacrifice in defence of the state, assisting government agencies and on peacekeeping missions.
Speaking to Offtheball.com, Colin Fennelly said being allowed to dedicate time to Hurling was the only advantage of army life:
We are surprised and disappointed to hear these comments from a former member. Óglaigh na hÉireann takes pride in our members who achieve at the highest levels in sport. However, whilst sport is an integral aspect of our culture, it is not the only aspect. @gergilroy
— Óglaigh na hÉireann (@defenceforces) January 31, 2019
