GAA Controversy.

Mixed blessings in Today’s Irish News which in Sports section reports that Next Years GAA Congress might debate rule 42.

Less welcome is that the Irish News carries a report, page 10, on controversy over the new GAA club in Twinbrook, which may be in breach of GAA rule eight which insists that the GAA must be non-sectarian and non-party political.

Cumann na Fuiseoige has placed specifically republican symbols on it’s club badge which results in the article headline

New GAA club’s crest runs ‘rules gauntlet’.Only a few days ago the Belfast Telegraph carried a report welcoming the new club. It was pleasing to see someone say

“Too often the young people of our communities are seen as a drain, a problem and not an asset,” he added.

“We do not share this view. Youth has always been our strength and the future of this community, and all of communities, lie within their hands.”

However the Club has chosen a crest carrying Icons associated with the IRA Hunger Striker Bobby Sands and the Hunger Strikes.

The Ulster Council of the GAA is reported as declining to comment.

Partricia Lewsley, SDLP described the symbols as ‘inappropriate’ and added ‘it’s a pity they could not find another symbol that is inclusive’.

SF Councillor Paul Butler defended the choice on the grounds that Mr Sands came from Twinbrook – although Mr Sands was born in Rathcoole.

I doubt if this controversial choice will help bridge the gap between the communities.