Call on anthem and tricolour to remain part of GAA
POSSIBLE changes in relation to the use of Amhrán na bhFiann and the tricolour flag at GAA hostings in the event of any future political realignments roused comment at the Duhallow GAA Convention this week.
Chairman Joe Kearns told delegates the GAA was built by volunteerism in an amateur ethos, promoting our native language, national identity and national flag.
“Our national anthem should be sang at our finals, that applies also to county finals. Instead of it played over the public address, the winners of our Scór competitions should be asked to sing,” he said.
And former Duhallow Chairman Richard Murphy and current County Board Development Officer also voiced opinion on the anthem and tricolour, stressing the importance of culture and heritage.
“We see the New Zealand team perform their traditional discipline prior to sporting events. For us, gaelic games and culture are part of our DNA, no matter where we go, we should never be afraid to promote our identity, always proud of our flag and anthem,” he said.
Meanwhile, a ruling that will ultimately see no Duhallow divisional hurling team compete in the premier county juvenile grades heard disappointment expressed by Junior Board vice-chairman Steven Lynch.
That comes after a Duhallow U-14 hurling team weren’t allowed participate in 2016 and the same will follow suit next season for the U-16 level, a similar scenario applies to minor level from 2018.
“Our divisional teams have served us so well over the years with players that are now household names. Sadly our promising talent will not be given the opportunity to play in the highest grades within the county and wear the county red jersey,” he said.
“Our board is being treated unsatisfactory, there appears to be a wall built in Rebel Og to halt Duhallow. The work being done is not appreciated, the Duhallow model in summer camps, mid term camps, workshops initiated here is now followed by Rebel Og.”
Chairman Joe Kearns added that all involved are deeply frustrated at the run of events.
“Not allowing the U-14 hurlers participate was a hiccup for our team at premier level, involvement allows young players an opportunity to gather experience and excel.
“The alternative to put forward two or three players onto development squads isn’t good enough, its important to develop the skills of our best 25 players or so in our divisional teams through regular activity in training and participating in competitions,” he said.