No policy change for GAA without ‘conclusive case’

THE GAA must not agree to any policy change on the use of Croke Park by other sports without a ‘conclusive’ case being made, according to Ulster GAA Secretary, Danny Murphy.

Mr Murphy tells the annual convention in Enniskillen this weekend that while there has been continuing pressure at national level to be ‘magnanimous’ in relation to the use of the stadium, the Association’s interest was not being recognised in the debate.

“We have developed facilities at all levels almost entirely from our own resources and there has been little evidence that those who stand to benefit from any change in Rule 42 have our well-being at heart,’’ he stated.

“We recently witnessed that a new stadium is to be built in Dublin with a huge input of public funds, but there was no such support evident when we were promised funding. There are major implications for our Association now and in the future and unless there is a clear case to change then there are definite reasons not to change.’’

Mr Murphy also takes issue with government funding for the GAA in Ulster, stating that there is: ‘a serious and constant under-funding of sport in the six counties, dating back to the start of direct rule and particularly so since the introduction of Safe Sports Grounds legislation.’

“This supported major stadia development at between 60% and 80% and was available almost 15 years ago in Britain. We received no such encouragement and the interim Safe Sports Grounds Scheme clearly discriminated against us in the availability and consistency of funding.

“The situation over the past year has been one of total frustration and it appears to us that DCAL (Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure) are at least apathetic to our Association or are actively supporting other sport as a matter of policy. Neither position is acceptable to us.’’

Mr Murphy expresses concern that the Council’s strengthening financial position is being offset by the continued increased costs of playing games. Specifically, the introduction of the ‘Code of Good Practice’ for safety at grounds has placed responsibility for the organisers of an event to ensure the safety of everyone in attendance.

“The Association has never compromised on any aspect of safety but there is a need for an urgent review of the operations required under the Code.”

“There is a very clear need to review the requirements for the level of involvement of external bodies and agencies and the related costs for their services.’’