Anger as GAA blocks debate on opening Croker

The GAA has opted not to discuss the possibility of opening up Croke Park to other sports at this year's Congress.

All eight motions seeking to amend Rule 42, which currently keeps Croke Park closed to non-GAA sports, have been ruled out of order.

A high-powered vetting committee found that each motion failed to either mention the need to amend Rule 5 or Rule 43 and Rule 44 in some cases.

GAA President Sean Kelly said: "When eight different counties submit a motion relating to one rule it is a matter for concern when it can't make Congress at all."

Noel Walsh, from the Miltown Malbay club in Clare, has been pioneering the cause to open up Croke Park for years.

Walsh said: "What has happened is preventing the fair and democratic possibility of allowing people to air their pros and cons."