Drumcar GAA sports field is opened by the president

The fine work by the Brothers of St. John of God at St. Mary’s, and at other houses in their control, was lauded by tlse President of the G.A.A. at the official opening of their new Sportsfield at Drumcar, on Wednesday night of last week.

This was a big occasion for the Brothers and all concerned with St. Mary’s, and it was unfortunate that the weather was not kinder.

The well laid out playing field earned the admiration of the G.A.A. President and other visiting officials.

Mr. O’Riain, who was introduced by the Chairman of the Louth Co. Board, Mr. Sean Murray, Drogheda, said in addition to promotion of their Irish games, the G.A.A. was very much interested in all work of national importance, and high up on this list of priorities, was support for the dedicated work by the Brothers of St. John of God in caring for people. Great advances had been made in this field in latter years thanks to a more enlightened approach. Mr. O’Riain said that it was only in fairly recent times that the general public had come to accept that there was a need for schools and establishments such as existed at Drumcar.

The President said he regarded it as a privilege to be asked to perform the official opening, and he was delighted that the Louth Boaord was so closely associated with the Brothers’ efforts. The grounds, which were a credit to all concerned, would, he understood, be used to a great extent by the staff of St. Mary’s.

The Prior of St. Mary’s Rev Br. Aloysius, O.H., joined in welcoming Mr. O’Riain.

Louth and Monaghan teams, travelling at their own expense, had the honour of playing the first match, the home side winning a well contested hour by a four points margin to capture the fine trophies. Prior to the start, a parade was led by the Drogheda band, and the National Anthem played.

The ball was thrown in by Mr. O’Riain, who also presented the trophies at a function afterwards in St. Mary’s.

At this function, the President again referred at some length to the work of the Brothers, being supported by Mr. Murray.