Rule 21, the GAA regulation banning members of British security forces from Gaelic sports, is likely to be scrapped sooner rather than later, the Minister of Culture, Arts and Leisure said yesterday.
Mr Michael McGimpsey of the Ulster Unionist Party said it was "wrong" the rule remained in place, but told the Assembly the subject was a matter for the GAA.
Answering questions about sectarianism in sport, he added: "It seems to me that their position has been softening in recent times.
"Certainly I think that the general belief is that Rule 21 will go sooner rather than later and I think we would welcome that."
In response to a question from Mr Kieran McCarthy, of the Alliance party, about sectarianism in local soccer, he said legislation aimed at tackling sectarian, unruly and indecent behaviour on the terraces and to deter unacceptable and disruptive activities was under consideration.
He was to meet members of the Irish Football Association with members of the Sports Council on July 7th to discuss the subject.
He spoke of the poor state of the spectator areas in soccer grounds in the North, describing some as "a throwback to Belfast Zoo" before improvements were carried out there, and warned that if people were treated like animals they would behave like animals.
Anti-hooligan legislation would form part of an overall package aimed at reviving the local game and boost the low numbers attending matches, he said.
"Whether it [sectarianism] is a real problem or a perception problem, it has to be addressed for the health of the game."