No injury claims from pitch invasion

Contrary to previous assertions, no personal injury claim has been made against the GAA arising from the pitch invasion at last year’s Munster SHC final in the Gaelic Grounds.

Limerick secretary Mike O’Riordan in his annual report last month mentioned three cases were being pursued after Limerick won their first provincial senior title in 16 years.

However, the Irish Examiner yesterday learned nobody is challenging the GAA for damages following the mass celebration.

O’Riordan explained he had made reference to the claims on the basis of information from Croke Park. “The [GAA’s] safety committee indicated to us some claims were made against us and I mentioned it in my report before Christmas.”

County chairman Oliver Mann supported O’Riordan, stating: “We are relieved that this matter has been clarified. Our coffers could have been hit had these claims gone through. It would have also reflected negatively on the Gaelic Grounds. It would have damaged Limerick’s reputation. The main thing is no one was hurt on the day.”

GAA insurance officer Sinead Quinn confirmed: “Formally, no proceedings have been instigated. There may have been a mention in Mike’s report and we would have made a full defence had there been any claims. The lines in the report perhaps generated more interest than they should have.”

GAA president Liam O’Neill referenced the claims earlier this week, stating it was a pity it took the cases to make people realise the danger of pitch invasions.