Final call to GAA chief to speak out on the alcohol sponsor problem

GAA president Séan O'Ceallaigh is being lauded for many things he has done during his term of office, which is now ending. Few will disagree with the general tone of tribute.

Indeed, some might feel that Colm O'Rourke's recent public comment on RTÉ2 (Sunday, April 2) that "he has left quite a mess to his successor", in matters such as the GPA problem, is rather harsh.

But the outgoing president has failed in one far more important matter - that of turning a blind eye to the abuse of alcohol on his watch. Specifically, despite one recent nuanced tack he has allowed - even encouraged - the GAA's involvement with an alcohol firm in the promotion of Gaelic games.