Down club withdraw Allianz motion, ask for donation instead

Saval’s proposal was that Down boycott the National Leagues in protest at Allianz’s sponsorship of the competitions

A match ball before an Allianz Football League match. Photo by Brendan Moran/Sportsfile

Down club Saval has withdrawn their motion calling on the county not to participate in this year’s National Leagues as a form of protest.

Saval’s proposal aimed at Allianz’s sponsorship of the competition and the global insurance company’s indirect links to the genocide in Israel was due to be heard at a county board meeting in Newcastle on Thursday evening.

However, that won’t now happen as a press release from Down confirmed. Instead, it has been agreed that the county board will approach Croke Park to make a substantial donation to assist the people in Gaza.

The statement read: “Coiste Chontae an Dúin confirms that, following constructive engagement with the Committee of Saval GAC regarding the motion from the Club to the meeting of the County Committee scheduled for Thursday 15th January, agreement has been reached to withdraw the motion from the clár for that meeting.

“It is recognised that a number of positive and practical initiatives may be pursued to progress the matter and to demonstrate meaningful support for the people of Gaza.

“In this context Down GAA, on behalf of its clubs, will write to the Ard Stiurthóir, Tom Ryan, proposing that the GAA make an appropriate contribution to an Irish charity providing humanitarian aid to the people of Gaza.

“Such a contribution could be drawn from proceeds arising from Allianz National League gates and associated corporate sponsorship. We believe this proposal represents a constructive approach around which the clubs of Down and our county officers can unite.

“We further suggest that, in collaboration with Coiste Chontae an Dúin, Down clubs engage with suitable Irish charitable partners to help facilitate aid reaching those most in need in Gaza.

“Coiste Chontae an Dúin acknowledge that Saval GAC and its members have acted in accordance with the ethos of our Association, seeking to respond in a responsible and practical manner to what is widely recognised as a humanitarian crisis.” 

In 2024, a donation was made by the GAA in conjunction with the Gaelic Players Association to the Red Cross’s aid work in Gaza. It accompanied a statement by the organisations calling on an immediate ceasefire in the Palestinian region and for all hostages to be released.