Progress has been made and leadership demonstrated by the GAA on the issue of allowing members of Northern Ireland’s security forces to join the organisation, the DUP sports minister said tonight.
Speaking at a Stormont reception for the Tyrone senior and minor football teams, Gregory Campbell praised the organisation for rule changes allowing PSNI and army personnel to take part but called for further movement.
“Progress has been made and leadership has been demonstrated. However, my views and the views of many are that further action needs be seen to be taken if the GAA is to position itself to play an even greater role in helping to improve community relations,” he said.
In November 2001, GAA members across Ireland voted to scrap Rule 21 which barred police and soldiers. The PSNI has since established a side which plays at a lower level.
Mr Campbell said change was never easy and took courage and strong leadership.
“In recent times we have seen significant rule changes within the GAA. These changes are to be welcomed and I want to encourage the GAA in those efforts,” he told members of the Tyrone senior and minor teams.
“I would encourage the GAA along with the other sporting bodies in Northern Ireland to continue the good work which they all have commenced and I want to see sport recognised for what it is, without any connotations or linkages that have been perceived to be a cause of division in the past.”
The senior Tyrone side defeated Kerry in a tight encounter in the All Ireland final in Croke Park final in September, while the minor team beat Mayo.
Tyrone senior manager Mickey Harte said he was looking ahead to this year’s competition and pointed out that there was a long way to go to the final in September.
Sinn Féin deputy first minister Martin McGuinness welcomed the decision to hold a reception at Stormont and said many would see Tyrone as the team of the decade.
PA