On-pitch celebrations an important GAA tradition

THE GAA or Croke Park HQ will be trying again this year to stop on-pitch invasions of fans, after especially, All-Ireland football and hurling finals.

This is, because of health and safety reasons, as some out of the 5,000+ (80,000 sitting) that do spill on to the pitch can get injured and can take a compensation claim against the GAA.

GAA brass are thinking of asking the government to bring in a law to ban such intrusion.

A last resort. I think a compromise could be a PA announcement at the beginning and half-time of the game, reminding people to take care and give space to others for the on-field celebration afterwards.

To end what is an important, fun tradition of congratulating the winning team and consoling the losing side, as they all make their way to and below the Hogan Stand for the presentation of the Sam Maguire Cup or the Liam Mcarthy Cup is not backed by most GAA supporters.

The relaxed informality of on-pitch celebrations helps make All-Irelands special and uniquely Irish.

Mary Sullivan

College Road

Cork