Mid Ulster councillor’s bid to defund GAA over social distancing and pro-IRA songs fails

The proposal was introduced by Dungannon councillor Clement Cuthbertson who raised what he described as the issue of social media footage showing men in Dungannon GAA tops flouting social distancing guidelines, singing pro-IRA songs and using sectarian language.

The footage appeared online following Dungannon Thomas Clarke’s GAC victory in the Tyrone County Championship final on Sunday, September 20.

Speaking at September’s meeting of Mid Ulster District Council, Mr Cuthbertson said: “In normal times we would be here tonight congratulating a sporting achievement for Dungannon.

“However, any significance this victory had, has been lost to the disgraceful and reckless scenes we witnessed last weekend.The blatant disregard shown to social distancing and Covid-19 regulations, which are in place to protect us all, was shameful.

“I have been contacted by many in our health service who are in utter despair after watching the footage of what had taken place.”

Mr Cuthbertson then called on council to suspend funding to the GAA pending the organisation’s condemnation of these actions and a police investigation.

Councillor Cuthbertson’s proposal was seconded by DUP group leader, Councillor Paul McLean.

The council chair Cathal Mallaghan, said: “Whether it is a golf gathering in the south or Sammy Wilson travelling on the tube without wearing a mask, we have to take responsibility for our own actions.

“The (GAA) Ulster Council was very quick to come out and comment and what they said was sensible. Whether or not we were ready for sport to come back, with all the emotion it brings is another question.

“However, I think this proposal is taking a sledgehammer to crack a nut and is tarnishing the whole of the GAA right across Mid Ulster.”

The proposal was put to a vote and was defeated with 14 in favour and 23 against.