Rebel fans protest GAA standoff

AS THOUSANDS of demonstrators took to the streets of Cork city last night, Taoiseach Bertie Ahern warned both sides in the dispute rocking Cork GAA not to let personality clashes get out of hand.

Mr Ahern said it was up to the GAA authorities to resolve the bitter row, but as a fan of the game he wanted those involved to keep their cool.

“I suppose as a GAA supporter, we would all like to see it resolved.

“I suppose if I was to give any word of advice, on any issue that ever creates difficulties, it’s to try to keep the focus on the issue,” he said.

“Because what happens is when side issues and personality issues get into things, it’s very difficult to resolve.

“So my word of advice always in these issues is keep it on the core question,” said Mr Ahern as he attended a GAA event at Croke Park.

Meanwhile, about 2,000 supporters marched in protest last night to highlight their frustration with the continuing crisis.

Led by a piper and drummer, about 200 marchers left the assembly point on Parnell Place at 8pm in the driving rain.

By the time the march had gone along Merchants Quay, onto Patrick Street and down the South Mall the gathering had grown considerably.

“I’d say we had about 2,000 supporters by the time we reached the Imperial Hotel, which wasn’t a bad turnout considering the awful conditions on the night,” said Thomas Roche, the driving force behind last night’s demonstration.

Those who took part represented all sides in the controversy, but no members of the county board nor the players themselves attended.

“We have proven that there are many people out there who want to see this matter resolved. All we want is to have this thing sorted out and get the Cork team back on the field,” said Mr Roche.

“If this matter is not sorted out soon, our next march could be on a meeting of the county board. We have to consider both sides in this dispute, but it looks as if the county board have brought this upon themselves.”