Howlin’s hat not yet in the ring

LEINSTER chairman Sheamus Howlin won’t decide until the new year if he will contest the GAA presidential race.

The Wexford native, nominated by his county board on Wednesday, will give careful consideration before committing to join the race for the office, with his Leinster predecessor Laois’ Liam O’Neill, Tipperary’s Con Hogan and Donegal’s Tom Daly.

However, Howlin believes he has the credentials to succeed current president Christy Cooney.

“My involvement at many levels of the GAA has given me a deep insight into every aspect of our Association,” said the St Martin’s man, who thanked his club and county for their support.

“Having served in a number of senior roles at county, provincial and national levels, I am aware of the many challenging issues which our Association faces, particularly at such a difficult time for our country. I am very aware also of the important role our Association plays in the lives of the Irish Diaspora in many foreign lands.”