CLG ULADH AN CHOMHDHÁIL BHLIANTÚIL 2020 - 31Ú EANÁIR 2020 CLG CHLÁIRSEACHA BHÉAL ÁTHA AN AIRGID, CO ARD MHACHA - Ulster GAA
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ANNUAL CONVENTION 2020 CLG ULADH AN CHOMHDHÁIL BHLIANTÚIL 2020 CLUICHÍ | CULTÚR | TEANGA 31Ú EANÁIR 2020 CLG CHLÁIRSEACHA BHÉAL ÁTHA AN AIRGID, CO ARD MHACHA
ANNUAL CONVENTION 2020 ANNUAL CONVENTION 2020
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a dhéanamh agus an BBC ábalta BUÍOCHAS A bhuí lenár gcomhghleacaithe: Peil In just 14 years’ time the GAA will Two explores the National League Any change however must be for the
comhchraoladh cluiche ar bith i na mBan agus Cumann Camógaíochta celebrate its 150th birthday. It will be format for the championship and overall betterment of the Association
Gabhaim buíochas ó chroí leis na
gCraobhchomórtas Uladh a bhí Uladh as an tacaíocht agus as an an important milestone in our great envisages standalone Provincial and it would be detrimental to the
hoibrithe deonacha inár gclubanna
craolta ‘beo’ ag RTÉ, chomh maith tuiscint a léiríonn siad, agus is cinnte Association and while for some it Championships, with the Ulster province as a whole if all our counties
agus inár gcontaetha a chaitheann a
leis seo, bhí muid in ann a shocrú go go gcoinneoimid ag obair lena chéile may still seem a while away, as we all Championship comprising two groups didn’t have the opportunity of winning
gcuid ama féin i mbun oibre ar son an
mbeadh an BBC in ann dhá chluiche ar ábhair lenár leas. know well it will come upon us quite of five teams (which would include the Anglo-Celt Cup in any given year.
chumainn seo.
eile a chraoladh ‘beo’ nach raibh quickly. Almost certainly there are one county from Leinster). This is a
á taispeáint ag RTÉ nó Sky. Chun é Foilseofar an chéad phlean members of the Ulster Council today format I couldn’t support under any
seo a bhaint amach, bhí orainn tús straitéiseach de chuid CLG Uladh in who will still be on the Council on this circumstances. We can all learn from 2019 GAMES ACTIVITY
Sa ról seo atá agam mar Rúnaí an
na gcluichí seo a sceidealadh ionas 2020. Rinneadh cuid mhaith taighde great anniversary – that’s how close it the past and the experience from In 2019, the Anglo Celt Cup was
Chúige, is minic a chastar daoine
nach mbeadh sé ag teacht salach ar cheana, agus gabhaim buíochas le is! I reference this as more than ever Hurling tells us that the Ulster Senior retained by Dún na nGall while the
spreagúla orm, agus tá mé iontach
chlúdach na meán de chuid RTÉ nó Cathaoirleach an Choiste, Daithí Ó people are beginning to examine in Hurling Championship effectively Ulster Club Championships in both
buíoch as an treoir agus as an
Sky. Mar aon leis seo, tugadh cead hOsáin, agus le baill an choiste, a greater detail the role of the Provincial ‘died’ the day it was de-coupled Hurling and Football continue to
tacaíocht a fhaighim uaibh. A
don BBC clúdach iomlán a chraoladh bhfuil ionadaithe ó gach cód de chuid Councils, which have been a core from the All-Ireland Senior Hurling enthuse our players and spectators
bhuíochas ar na maoir agus ar na fir
curtha siar ar gach cluiche sa an CLG sa chúige air, as a ndícheall ‘is fundamental of the GAA since the early Championship. When played as a alike. Slaughtneil, Naomh Éanna
geataí a oibríonn ar son CLG Uladh
Chraobhchomórtas Uladh nach raibh a ndúthracht. Go luath in sa bhliain years of the 20th century. standalone competition it failed to and Eoghan Rua Coleraine collected
seachtain ar sheachtain. A bhuí leis
craolta ‘beo.’ úr, eagrófar roinnt imeachtaí do capture the imagination of the public the respective titles in hurling and
an Phríomh-Mhaor Mícheál Mac
pháirtithe leasmhara agus muid ag Former GAA President Aogán Ó and indeed many players. I fear the congratulations to all involved. The
Cearnaigh agus Leas-Phríomhmhaor,
Ó tharla go raibh cluiche sa ullmhú i dtreo chríoch na straitéise. FearghaÍl established a committee same fate would befall Football if this Ulster Hurling Club Final between
Terence Mac Sé, as a ndílseacht
Chraobhchomórtas seo léirithe ag Buíochas le baill na foirne anseo in to examine where the Association were to be the agreed way forward. Slaughtneil and Dunloy took place in
agus a dtiomantas don Chumann. Go
Sky, bhí cúig as naoi dár gcluichí in CLG Uladh as an tacaíocht leanúnach; should be in 2034 and their report Páirc Esler, Newry with almost 5,000
raibh céad maith agaibh, oifigigh ó
2019 craolta ‘beo’ ar an teilifís, agus is sibh a thug dílseacht. Agus an “Towards 2034 – the 150th Anniversary Option One of The Taskforce Report spectators in attendance.
na naoi gcontae, agus Rúnaithe na
clúdach iomlán curtha siar ag an meall mór ar deireadh, gabhaim of the GAA”, was completed in 2018 proposes a maintenance of the link
gContaetha, nó bím ag plé libhse ach
chuid eile. Ní féidir le cúige ar bith buíochas ó chroí leis an fhoireann but never published. That said much with the All-Ireland series but with The Ulster Senior Football Club
go háirithe. Tá mé iontach buíoch
eile nochtadh mar seo a mhaíomh. sa bhaile, ní thiocfadh liom dualgais of the report is in the public domain, a re-structuring of the Provincial Championship always delivers quality
as an chuidiú agus an tacaíocht
Ó thaobh an chlub, bhí trí chluiche sa an phoist seo a chomhlíonadh gan including a recommendation that Championships to comprise eight fare and this year’s final saw the
a thugann sibh dom ar bhonn
chraobhchomórtas craolta ‘beo’ (dhá sibh. Bíonn mo bhean chéile, Deirdre, Provincial Councils be replaced by new teams each. This would mean that unique pairing of Naomh Conaill and
rialta. Gabhaim buíochas fosta le
cheann ag TG4 agus ceann amháin i gcónaí taobh liom: go raibh céad administrative hubs called Regional two teams from Leinster and one from Kilcoo. Kilcoo, just like Gaoth Dobhair
huachtarán an CLG, Seán Ó hÓráin,
ag RTÉ) agus tá dul chun cinn iontach maith agat, a Dheirdre, as do chuid Councils, with regions to be decided by Ulster would compete in a different in 2018, became first time winners of
Ard Stiúrthóir Tom O Riain, agus
déanta ag an BBC ar ábhar digiteach tacaíochta agus as an tuiscint. A agreed criteria such as population and Provincial Championship. the Seamus MacFerran Cup. Well done
leis an fhoireann ar fad i bPáirc an
dá gcuid, rud a chuirfeas go mór le bhuí le mo pháistí: Étain, Ardán agus geographical proximity. also to Magheracloone and Blackhill
Chrócaigh a bhíonn fial flaithiúil lena
nochtadh ar leith ar an chainéal seo. Malachaí nó bíonn lámh cuidithe acu The Provincial Championships are a who collected the Intermediate and
gcuid ama agus a thugann treoir nuair
Bhí clúdach digiteach an chluiche i gcónaí. Gabhaim buíochas ó chroí The recently published “Report of The core tenet of the GAA and ending them Junior titles respectively.
a bhíonn gá leis. Le rúnaithe
idir Cross Mhic Lionnáin agus Cluain libh ar fad! Fixtures Calendar Review Task Force” would be a grave mistake which would
na gCúigí, go raibh céad maith
Tiobrad ‘beo’ i gcraobhchomórtas has again brought into focus the remit erode part of our core fabric. I penned The Ulster Football Club League in
agaibh fosta as an chomhairle
chlubanna Uladh sa Pheil. Anois agus of the Provincial Council, specifically a strong defence of the Provincial 2019 saw a total of 37 clubs involved,
agus as an tacaíocht.
cluichí an Craobhchomórtais léirithe in relation to competitions. The Report Championships in the 2019 Ulster with 16 teams in senior, 12 teams in
ag an BBC ar an iPlayer, tá deis ag provides for three options in relation to Senior Football Final match programme intermediate and nine in junior. This
Is cuid lárnach iad ár n-urraitheoirí
an lucht féachana iad a fheiceáil the future structure of the inter-county and those words ring as true today as year saw the introduction of the junior
de chomhpháirtíocht CLG Uladh agus
arís ón Mháirt dar gcionn, agus is senior football championship, two they did seven months ago. grade and this was well received
gabhaim buíochas lenár bpríomh-
céim mhór chun tosaigh é seo. Tá of which would have a fundamental and ensured that all teams received
urraitheoirí: O’Neills Sportswear
fáilte mhór roimh an fhorbairt seo, impact on the four provincial football The Taskforce Report deserves a games at their own level. Kilcoo
agus Banc na hÉireann, agus lenár
agus tuilleadh clúdaigh ar chluichí championships. Presently having mature debate and this will happen (An Dún), Tír na nÓg Randalstown
n-urraitheoirí corparáideacha dá
ó chraobhchomórtais an chlub the most competitive provincial in the coming months. The history, (Aontroim) and Brocagh (Tír Eoghain)
bhflaithiúlacht agus dá ndílseacht
imeartha fud fad na gcontaetha championship, the impact of any uniqueness and competiveness of won the Senior, Intermediate and
leanúnach do na cluichí Gaelacha sa
in Uladh. change would be greatest within Ulster. the Ulster Championship must be Junior Finals respectively. This
Chúige. Murach na himreoirí agus na
Option Three of the report opts for central to this debate. We can at competition again provided clubs
cóitseálaithe, ní bheadh cluichí ann, BRIAN MAC FHÍOBHUÍ the status quo – with proposed times all benefit from change and with competitive action at their
agus mar Chumann, táimid iontach go RÚNAÍ CHOMHAIRLE ULADH CLG changes elsewhere – while Option there is some merit in this proposal.
deo buíoch daoibh ar fad.
38 AN CHOMHDHÁIL BHLIANTÚIL 2020 ANNUAL CONVENTION 2020 39
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teams enhanced the Dr McKenna Cup
as a competition and their parting
is a major disappointment, though
one which couldn’t in all reality
have been avoided. I thank them for
their participation and wish them
every success in the inter-varsity
competition.
SENIOR FOOTBALL
CHAMPIONSHIP
The 2019 Ulster Senior Football
Championship commenced at Healy
Park, Omagh on Sunday 12th May,
where Tír Eoghain overcame Doire by
1-19 to 1-13. The following weekend,
An Cabhán defeated Muineachán by
1-13 to 0-12 at Kingspan Breffni and
Ard Mhacha edged out An Dún by 2-17
to 3-13 in an exciting tussle at Páirc
Esler. One week later, Tír Eoghain
overcame Aontroim at the Athletic
Grounds on a 2-23 to 2-09 scoreline
games, band entertainment and the taking place over two weekends and Ard Mhacha had a comprehensive
while Dún na nGall beat their
Senior showpiece, the Ulster Final counties were playing every two victory over Muineachán in Clones.
neighbours Fear Manach at Brewster
day continues to be a celebration of weeks as they remained in the hunt Aontroim were defeated at home to
Park on a 0-15 to 0-9 scoreline.
our great Association in the province. for the Anglo Celt. Sunday 23rd June Cill Dara and An Dún were beaten by
appropriate level prior to the BOI DR. MCKENNA CUP The game was a step too far for An seemed an early conclusion to our Maigh Eo in Páirc Esler.
In the first semi-final, played at
commencement of their internal Cabhán, as Dún na nGall assumed Ulster Championship but is a positive
In our first competition of the year, Clones on Sunday 2nd June, An
county games programmes. total control for long spells and development for all our clubs. Qualifier Round 3 on 29th June saw
the Dr McKenna Cup, Tír Eoghain Cabhán and Ard Mhacha could not
emerged as 1-24 to 2-16 champions. Tír Eoghain travel to Newbridge and
claimed the title after a 12 month be separated, even after extra time.
The Allianz Football League had hiatus. They defeated Ard Mhacha
Congratulations go to Dún na nGall ALL-IRELAND FOOTBALL Ard Mhacha make the journey to
The following weekend a strong Dún
contrasting fortunes for the Ulster in an entertaining final at the
for claiming back to back titles. CHAMPIONSHIP Castlebar. Tír Eoghain recorded a 2-22
na nGall performance defeated Tír
counties. Dún na nGall secured the The All-Ireland Senior Football to 1-15 victory over Cill Dara while Ard
Athletic Grounds by 0-16 to 0-14 in Eoghain by 1-16 to 0-15 at Kingspan
Division Two title and promotion to Some commentators questioned Championship for Ulster Mhacha just lost out to Maigh Eo by
front of 11,318 spectators. I wish Breffni and An Cabhán emerged
Division One with victory over An Mhí. the quality of football in the Ulster representatives began on 8th June 2-13 to 1-15. Qualifier Round 4 pitted
to compliment the understanding victorious over Ard Mhacha by 0-23
Doire bounced back from Division Championship and there were with five of our counties involved An Cabhán and Tír Eoghain together
from our counties and universities to 0-17.
Four at the first time of asking by occasions when I wondered had over that weekend. Doire travelled in Clones and the Red Hand County
during the campaign as weather
securing the League title with a final they watched the same game as me. to Wexford and came away with a emerged as comfortable winners by
played havoc with the schedule. I The Ulster Final took place two weeks
victory over Liatroim. Both semi-finals between Cavan and convincing 4-16 to 0-10 win. Aontroim 1-20 to 0-7 and joined Dún na nGall in
also extend my gratitude to Bank later where Dún na nGall and An
Armagh were particularly exciting – also collected a good win on their the All Ireland Quarter Finals.
of Ireland for their continued Cabhán met at this stage for the first
It was a disappointing year for our 40 points were scored in the replay – travels as they recorded a 2-16 to 1-11
sponsorship of this important time since 1983, at St Tiernach’s Park,
counties in the Allianz Hurling while a record 43 scores were served win over Louth. Muineachán edged Tír Eoghain emerged from their
competition in the Ulster GAA Clones. A sell-out 28,778 spectators
Leagues. Dún na nGall were relegated up in the Ulster Final. out Fear Manach in Clones and An group as a consequence of wins over
calendar. 2020 sees a massive attended this unique final where
to Division 3A, Doire lost the 2B final Dún finished strongly to beat Tiobrad Corcaigh and Ros Cómain while they
change to the format with the three An Dún, the Ulster and All Ireland
to Wicklow and Ard Mhacha lost the The 2019 Ulster Senior Football Arann in Páirc Esler. In Round 2 of lost out to Baile Átha Cliath in their
universities no longer involved as a Senior Football Champions from 25
3A Final to Ros Comain. In the Nicky Championship was, for the second the Qualifiers there were wins for two Round 3 fixture. Dún na nGall won
direct consequence of the tightening years previous, were honoured. With
Rackard Cup Final Ard Mhacha lost year, played over a shortened period of our five competing counties. Tír their Round 1 game at home to An Mhí
of the fixture plan with the Sigerson the inclusion of honouring these
out to Sligeach while An Mhí defeated with the four Quarter Final games Eoghain defeated Longfort away and and drew their Round 2 game against
Cup now being played in January. successful teams from the past,
An Dún in the Christy Ring Cup Final. The involvement of the university Cumann na mBunscol exhibition
40 AN CHOMHDHÁIL BHLIANTÚIL 2020 ANNUAL CONVENTION 2020 41
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UNDER 20 FOOTBALL in what turned out to be a wonderful deservingly edging out Naomh Conaill
CHAMPIONSHIP occasion in the Athletic Grounds by 2-11 to 2-09 to claim their first
2019 saw the introduction of Regional in Armagh on Sunday 14th July, ever Seamus McFerran Cup. Well
Leagues for this age grade with the which attracted 5,743 spectators. done to all involved on this historic
majority of Ulster counties taking part A blistering attacking display by Tír achievement. It was a case of third
in the Leo Murphy Cup. Fittingly, An Eoghain, particularly in the first half, time lucky for ‘The Magpies’ having
Dún claimed this title by beating An secured the Corn Donall Ó Murchu on lost out in their previous two Ulster
Cabhán in the final. Dún na nGall and a 4-13 to 1-10 scoreline. Final appearances and another
Tír Eoghain participated in the Philly managerial triumph for the mercurial
McGuinness Cup with Tír Eoghain ULSTER CLUB FOOTBALL Mickey Moran.
collecting the title by defeating CHAMPIONSHIP
Sligeach in the decider. The Ulster Club Championship still The Intermediate Football Club
has that lure for our supporters and Championship remains an extremely
The Ulster Under 20 Football the local aspect means that clubs at competitive grade and 2019 was
Championship was played during all levels can aspire to the greatest no different. In the Preliminary
the months of June, July and August. stage in the province and beyond. In Round, Galbally defeated Grange
In the Preliminary Round, An Dún the Preliminary Round, Derrygonnelly at Crossmaglen. In the Quarter
beat Aontroim, in what was a curtain defeated Cargin and in the Quarter Finals, there were wins for Glenn,
raiser to the Ulster Senior Football Finals there were wins for Clontibret, Magheracloone, St Nauls and Galbally.
Championship Final, in Clones by 1-16 Derrygonnelly, Naomh Conaill and In the Semi Finals, Magheracloone
to 0-11. The quarter final stages saw Kilcoo. Derrygonnelly’s victory overcame Glenn while Galbally
victories for An Cabhán, Tír Eoghain, over Trillick required extra time and defeated St Nauls. In the Final played at
Fear Manach and Doire. The first penalties, as per the Winner on the the Athletic Grounds on Saturday 30th
semi-final saw Doire finish strongly Day protocols. In the semi-final, November, a strong Magheracloone
to see off a very good Fear Manach Derrygonnelly rued a raft of missed side claimed the Patrick McCully Cup
side by 1-14 to 1-11 at Healy Park. chances as they lost by 1-8 to 0-9 with a 1-15 to 0-13 win over the Tyrone
Ciarraí to set up a winner takes all game was played as a curtain raiser
The other semi-final saw An Cabhán to Kilcoo at the Athletic Grounds. champions, Galbally. The achievement
game in Castlebar. Unfortunately, on a to a senior game and that was when The competition took a break during
and Tír Eoghain meet as a curtain In the other semi-final Naomh marks a major milestone for the club
wet evening in McHale Park, Maigh Eo Down played Tyrone prior to the Down the exam period with the semi-finals
raiser to the All-Ireland SFC Qualifier Conaill produced a very controlled which have to train and play on other
progressed on a 1-13 to 1-10 scoreline v Armagh match in Páirc Esler. taking place on Friday 21st June. In
between the same two counties at St performance to defeat Clontibret at club grounds due to the collapse of
and eliminated the Ulster champions. two entertaining games, Tír Eoghain
Tiernach’s Park. Tír Eoghain emerged Healy Park, Omagh. In the final which a disused mine in September 2018,
In the All Ireland Semi Final, Tír In the Preliminary Round, saw off Doire by 1-14 to 0-10 at the
victorious on a 0-13 to 0-09 scoreline. was also played at Healy Park the which has rendered their club facilities
Eoghain got themselves into a great Muineachán, thanks to a strong finish, Athletic Grounds while Dún na nGall
The final was played as a double patrons were treated to a brilliant unusable. Their victory was universally
position at half time against Ciarraí but edged out An Dún at Clones and in lost out to Muineachán on a 5-10 to
header with the Minor Football Final spectacle of club football with Kilcoo, welcomed across the province. In
a strong second half showing from The the First Round there were wins for 2-11 scoreline. In a well- attended
backboned by five Branagan brothers, the Junior Football Championship,
Kingdom ended Tír Eoghain and indeed Doire, Tír Eoghain, An Cabhán and final, played as a double header with
Armagh winners Collegeland won
Ulster’s involvement in the All Ireland Muineachán. In Qualifier Round One, the Under 20 Final at the Athletic
their Preliminary Round game against
series on a 1-18 to 0-18 scoreline. Ard Mhacha ended the involvement of Grounds, it was Muineachán who
St Patrick’s Lisburn. In the Quarter
Aontroim at the Athletic Grounds on a again collected the Fr Murray Cup on
Finals, there were wins for Rock,
1-14 to 1-9 scoreline. Round Two saw a 1-13 to 1-11 final score. Well done to
Blackhill, Buncrana and Killinkere. In
MINOR FOOTBALL the four Round One winners play each all involved.
the Semi Finals Blackhill overcame
CHAMPIONSHIP other where Muineachán defeated Tír Both minor finalists qualified for the
Killinkere after extra time at the
The Ulster Minor Football Eoghain and Doire beat An Cabhán. All Ireland Quarter Finals and both
Athletic Grounds on the same night
Championship for the second Qualifier Round 2 saw wins for An Dún exited at this stage in O’Connor Park,
that history was made in Celtic Park
successive year is a Under 17 and Dún na nGall over Fear Manach Tullamore. Muineachán were beaten
when Buncrana and Rock could not
Championship and as the counties and Ard Mhacha respectively. The by eventual winners, Corcáigh 3-19 to
be separated after extra time, as they
had voted for a ‘back door’ following weekend, Tír Eoghain beat 2-10 and Tír Eoghain lost out to Ciarraí
were tied at 2-11 to 1-14. A penalty
championship, beaten teams got a An Dún in Páirc Esler and Dún na nGall by 1-12 to 0-9.
competition then ensued and it
second chance up to the semi-final came away from Kingspan Breffni with
was the Donegal champions that
stage. Subsequently, only one Minor a 1-18 to 2-07 victory.
prevailed 4-3.
42 AN CHOMHDHÁIL BHLIANTÚIL 2020 ANNUAL CONVENTION 2020 43
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ULSTER CLUB HURLING erroneously thought that this was a
CHAMPIONSHIP condition applied by Comhairle Uladh
In the Ulster Senior Hurling Club when in fact it’s Association wide
Semi-Finals, Slaughtneil faced and determined by rule. While fully
Armagh champions, Middletown, understanding the merits of ‘Winner
at the Athletic Grounds and ran out on The Day’ games, it is a particularly
convincing 1-17 to 0-08 winners. In difficult way to lose a final and there
the other semi-final, Dunloy also ran is merit in giving consideration to
out comfortable winners defeating allowing replays (which should be
Ballycran as part of the double decided on the day) if a championship
header. The Ulster Final between final finishes in a draw after extra-time.
Slaughtneil and Dunloy was played
in Páirc Esler where Slaughtneil In the Junior Club Hurling
produced a marvellous team display Championship, there were quarter
to win their third Ulster Hurling final wins for Inniskeen, Gort na
title in four years on a 1-15 to 0-10 Mona, Eoghan Rua, Coleraine and
The Junior Final was played at Healy Ard Mhacha, Muineachán and Tír Like its senior counterpart the Ulster scoreline. Their All-Ireland Club semi- Newry Shamrocks. The semi-finals
Park, with Blackhill producing a Eoghain all competed in the Nicky Minor Hurling Championship has final against Ballyhale Shamrocks saw Eoghan Rua defeat Inniskeen
massive second half to emerge as Rackard Cup with contrasting been discontinued for a three- year (Kilkenny) has been fixed for Páirc and Newry Shamrocks overcome Gort
1-11 to 0-09 winners and collect the fortunes. Ard Mhacha topped their period (2018 -2020) and following Esler in Newry and this will be a great na Mona. The Junior Final played in
Paul Kerr Cup for the first time ever. group with Muineachán finishing discussions with Comhairle Laighean, occasion for hurling in the province. the fine surrounds of Eoghan Ruadh,
They went onto defeat the British bottom while Tír Eoghain finished third the province was again permitted to It’s an all too rare occurrence now for Dungannon saw a strong Eoghan
champions, Thomas McCurtain’s in in their group. In the final, Ard Mhacha enter teams into the Leinster Minor All-Ireland hurling medallists to be Rua side claim their second Ulster
the Twinning Final in Ruislip on 8th lost out by the narrowest of margins to Hurling Championship. An Dún were playing competitively in the province title in five years by defeating Newry
December by 2-11 to 0-10 to progress Sligeach on a 2-14 to 2-13 scoreline. defeated by An Mhí, Ceatharleach and and I’ve no doubt the brave decision Shamrocks by 1-16 to 0-11. They went
to the All-Ireland Semi-Finals in Cill Dara while Aontroim beat Iar Mhí of CCCC to fix the game for a northern onto defeat the British champions,
early 2020. In the Lory Meagher Cup, Fear Manach but lost out to Cill Dara and Laois in venue will be totally vindicated. John Mitchel’s in the Twinning Final in
and An Cabhán again competed the group stage of the competition. Celtic Park on 24th November by 3-19
HURLING CHAMPIONSHIPS strongly with the meeting between They still however qualified for the The Intermediate Club Hurling to 0-7 to progress to the All-Ireland
these two sides being played as a knockout stages where they lost out Championship was an outstanding Semi Finals in early 2020
Antrim turned in some great sterling
curtain raiser to the Ulster Senior by 3-17 to 2-12 to a good An Mhí team. six team competition. There were
performances in the Joe McDonagh
Football Quarter Final between An quarter final wins for Eoghan Ruadh, CONOR MCGURK CUP
Cup and can count themselves highly
Cabhán and Muineachán at Kingspan Comhairle Laighean agreed to Dungannon and Keady. In the Down were crowned Conor McGurk
unfortunate not to qualify for the
Breffni. Fear Manach then just lost out accommodate one Ulster county in Semi-Finals we were treated to two Cup champions defeating Ulster
final. The Saffrons continue to be the
on a final place on score difference. the 2019 Leinster Under 21 Hurling brilliant games with Eoghan Ruadh University in a very exciting contest
standard bearers for hurling in the
Championship. Aontroim and An just edging out Keady and Naomh at The Dub. This competition has now
province and now under the charge
The lower tier hurling competitions Dún indicated that they wished to Éanna beating Bredagh by two points expanded from six to nine teams
of Darren Gleeson they’ll be hoping
are crucially important both for the compete for this place and played after extra-time. In the final, played in 2020 with Louth and Longford
in 2020 to make the breakthrough
development of the game and for a qualifier in March 2019. Antrim at Celtic Park, history was made with joining for the first time and Antrim
and once again get to compete in the
all those who participate in them. proved much too strong winning out Eoghan Ruadh and Naomh Éanna, returning after a one-year absence.
Liam McCarthy Cup.
They do however suffer from a lack on a 3-27 to 1-13 scoreline at Páirc still level after the playing of extra- This competition is now becoming
of meaningful exposure and the Esler. They progressed to the Leinster time, had to revert to penalties to an increasing important fixture
Doire, An Dún and Dún na nGall all
promotion of these tiers of hurling Championship where, for the second find a victor. Naomh Éanna emerged in the Ulster GAA calendar and in
competed in the same Christy Ring
needs to be a component factor in any consecutive season, they were victorious, winning 1-0 in the most the absence of an Ulster Senior
Cup in 2019. An Dún topped the group
future television rights negotiations. defeated by Ceatharlach by 0-25 to dramatic fashion. It was the first Hurling Championship, it’s the only
to reach the final but lost out to An
2-16 after extra time. GAA Championship Final decided on competition in which Ulster hurling
Mhí by 4-19 to 2-15.
penalties and many have questioned counties can all compete against
if the Winner on The Day protocols each other.
should apply to finals. Some people
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Given that this competition begins OTHER HURLING COMPETITIONS 2019 saw the introduction of the
in early December the teams from As was the case with the U-15 Hibernia Cup, with 27 Teams
Queen’s University and Ulster championships, there were a few participating. All Ulster Counties
University are able to compete. I near misses for the Ulster sides who entered and were rewarded with a
thank Queen’s University for their had got themselves into contention significant games programme. If
efforts in prompting and hosting this for promotion. Antrim just failed to there is to be a renaissance of hurling
competition and given the growing reach the Division 2A Final. Derry were in the province it is important that
status it is enjoying, it is hoped narrowly defeated in the Division 2B young players get the opportunity to
to have a formal sponsor for the Final by Wicklow and Armagh lost out compete at a meaningful level.
competition in place for next year. to Roscommon in the Division 3A Final. The Ulster Poc Fada took place at
Shane O’Neill’s GAC, Glenarm. The
All 32 counties were represented in four Ulster Champions, along with the
the Celtic Challenge, with 44 teams senior men’s runner up, progressed
participating in total. Ulster had to the All-Ireland Finals, with Ulster
success at two grades with Derry Champion Gareth Johnson (Down)
winning back to back Corn William finishing sixth. In the Senior Ladies
Robinson (Div 3) titles after a narrow Louise Duggan (Derry) finished fourth,
victory over Galway Tribesmen in an with Ulster doing particularly well
exciting final, while Antrim claimed in the underage categories where
the Corn Michael Feery (Div 5) trophy Antrim’s Orla Laverty and Oisin Marley
following a four points victory over (Donegal) both finished second overall.
Cill Dara. Permission has been given to The
National Hurling Development popularity. The competing teams greatest and most dedicated players
Committee (HDC) to organise a were drawn from 15 counties, across from the province to have worn their
Cross-County Hurling Competition three provinces, with the finals taking respective county jerseys. Charlie
for Adult Hurling Clubs in 2020. This place in Kingspan Breffni Park. Vernon departed the inter-county
new competition will enhance the scene after 14 seasons with the
development of clubs in Tier 3, 4, The theme of a very successful Ulster Orchard County, winning Ulster Senior
and 5 hurling counties and give them Coaching Conference, which was Football Championship medals in
the opportunity to compete against held at Owenbeg in mid-October, was 2006 and 2008. The Armagh Harps
a range of clubs of similar standard ‘Developing Hurling and Camogie stalwart has been a great ambassador
from different counties. Performance’ and it turned out to for his county and province and he
be a sell-out event with over 250 will be fondly remembered for his
The Ulster Óg Sport Hurling event in attendance. Former Waterford immense contribution to the Armagh
took place in Owenbeg, Dungiven. manager Derek McGrath and Cork jersey.
Eight clubs participated in the event Camogie management duo of Paudie
with the honours going to Aodh and Kevin Murray were the star Frank McGlynn also made his inter-
Ruadh, Ballyshannon (Cup) and attractions in what was a high quality county debut in 2006 and has had a
Padraíg Saírseíl, Belfast (Shield). Feile speaker list. stellar career with Donegal. Playing
UIadh was held in Woodlands, Belfast in what has been a golden era for
with 13 teams participating. The Táin RETIREMENTS the Tir Conaill men, Frank won five
Óg competition provided over 200 The post championship season Ulster Senior Football Championship
games across U-13 to U-15 levels has witnessed the retirement from medals, a National Football League
inclusive and continues to grow in inter-county football of some of the medal in 2007 and, most famously
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of all, an All-Ireland Senior football distinction and it was fitting that in number of counties. There is no While moving the start date forward Without some change the situation REFEREES
Championship medal in 2012. An his final year in the Breffni jersey he doubt that playing the U-20 season may address the cost and ‘senior could have become unmanageable so In concluding my summary of games
All-Star winner in the latter year, saw his team reach the Ulster Final. simultaneous with the senior inter- clash’ scenarios, it certainly didn’t Central Council subsequently made activity in 2019, I wish to thank
Frank’s thought of mind and great Cian came off the bench in a number county season created challenges address the issue of player welfare the decision, on the recommendation our match officials. I thank all our
burst of speed marked him out as a of games in the 2019 Championship but bringing forward the U-20 and young players being pulled from of CCCC, to decree that players referees for their time, commitment
footballer who almost seamlessly making a number of significant championship to February/March has ‘pillar to post’. It actually compounds involved with second level schools and involvement in the delivery
could turn defence into attack. His contributions, most tellingly in the merely replaced one problem with a the problem. The timing of the U-20 at ‘A’ and ‘B’ levels could not play for of our games programme which
great presence of mind and all-round drawn semi-final against Armagh. His bigger one. Championship now puts it on a their county until their school has included 304 games in 19 different
ability is something that will live long last appearance in the Cavan jersey direct collision course with Sigerson, been eliminated from its competition. competitions in 2019. Without
in the memory. was in the fourth round qualifier These are obvious issues for counties Freshers and second level football This is far from an ideal solution but referees, there are simply no games.
defeat to Tyrone. in playing this competition alongside competitions. Sigerson will be in the circumstances it was probably Our referees make themselves
At the end of November those two the senior inter-county championship. completed in the month of January the best on offer. The bigger issue available - some at very short notice.
great Monaghan stalwarts Vinny On the hurling front the St. John’s and That goes without saying. However at the very time when county U-20 remains however and while there On behalf of Ulster GAA I say thank
Corey and Dessie Mone announced Antrim stalwart Simon McCrory called the U-20 Championship is primarily a squads are at the height of their was an unfairness in the previous you to all of our referees for their
that their inter-county careers were at his inter-county career to an end after developmental competition, yet costs Championship preparations. Freshers timing of this competition, it is even continued support. I congratulate all
an end. The Clontibret duo, who had more than a decade playing with were also cited as one reason for football is also being played at the more unfair now and especially for our referees who refereed finals at
a great season at club level, when ‘The Saffrons.’ A very talented player, bringing forward the playing season. same time as the U-20 Championship, the player himself. A solution must be any grade and make special reference
Monaghan Senior Championship Simon has the distinction of being the Much of these costs could have been while the provincial second level found, perhaps through the scheduling to those from the province who
honours came their way, had last player to lift the Liam Harvey Cup averted had counties adhered to the schools’ competitions are also of provincial championship games refereed national finals during the
represented the Farney County since when he captained Antrim to victory ‘collective training’ start date of 1st at the business end as the U-20 mid-week in April, so there would be past year. These were Noel Mooney
2003 and 2004 respectively. Two over Armagh in the 2017 Ulster Senior March, which if the truth be told was Championship gets underway. minimal interference with weekend (All-Ireland Minor Football Final),
great servants of the game, they Hurling Final. largely ignored. It must be stated club fixtures.
played for many years with little by however that ‘a blind eye’ was turned
way of reward other than the pride TIMING OF THE U-20 FOOTBALL to this, largely due to the fact that
in wearing their beloved Monaghan CHAMPIONSHIP there was no stated penalty for a
jersey but their efforts were finally At last year’s Ulster Convention breach of this rule.
rewarded when an Ulster title came the timing of the U-20 Football
their way in 2013. Another followed Championship was raised by a
in 2015 and famously in 2018 they
were part of the Monaghan side
that came so close to reaching the
county’s first All-Ireland final since
1930. Magheracloone’s Gavan Doogan
also called an end to his inter-county
career, though he hadn’t featured on
Monaghan teams with any degree
of regularity in recent years. The
man who guided Monaghan during
these glory years, Malachy O’Rourke,
also stepped down after the 2019
campaign. They have left us with
some memorable moments.
The dynamic Cavan and Castlerahan
forward Cian Mackey called time
on his inter-county career after 15
years in the Cavan senior set up.
Cian represented his county with
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Colum Cunnning (Joe McDonagh Cup the ‘good’ underage player who often least one underage grade above While there have been concerns I would contend that two referees – necessitated a replay. However even
Final), James Connors (Nicky Rackard finds it the most difficult to make the U-17, preferably at U-19 level. A clear expressed about the ‘advanced mark’ one in either half – would reduce the without this unexpected ‘boost’ our
Cup Final), Barry Cassidy (All-Ireland transition from juvenile to adult level. distinction is therefore made at it worked well in trials and it has the amount of “off the ball” incidents as Ulster Championship attendances
Senior Club Football Final) and Paul U-17 level, as no player playing at aim of encouraging higher levels of each referee would be policing their exceeded 113,600.
Falloon (All-Ireland Junior Club The prevalence of well intentioned, this grade can play at adult level. It ‘direct’ football. Similar concerns half of the field and therefore, unlike
Football Final). but largely non evidence based also recommends that the first All- were expressed when the ‘kick-out the linesmen, not have to follow TELEVISION GAMES
I wish to record my thanks to Nicola underage development squads, has Ireland inter-county level is at U-17, mark’ was first introduced but it the play. I only believe that there Over the past year Ulster GAA has
McKeever – wife of the late Paul – and led to an ‘elitist culture’ amongst though it does recommend a tiered has proved to be one of the most would be a need for two referees at liaised closely with Croke Park and
the McKeever family for donating a some at an early age. This is competition at this level. successful rule changes implemented senior inter-county and, perhaps, GAA broadcasters to gain optimum
trophy in his memory to be presented unhealthy. The evidence across a It is vital that the findings and by the Association in recent times. senior club championship level and I exposure for games within the
annually to the Uster Academy range of sports indicates that it is the recommendations of this report are The restrictions on when the believe that it is something worthy of province. It must be remembered that
Referee of the Year. Fittingly, in its ‘late developer’ to ‘elite level’ who not overshadowed by the ongoing ‘advanced mark’ can be taken may consideration during the next playing television rights for the inter-county
inaugural year the winner was from has the best chance of succeeding debate around age grades. The cause some initial confusion, though rules experiment. championships rest with RTE and Sky
Antrim and I congratulate Conal at the top levels of their sport. This uneven grades are based on having as players and referees become and for the Club Championships they
Roberts on being the first recipient of is because their work ethic tends to a clear distinction between U-17 and more accumstomed to it there will Any rule that is not enforceable rest with TG4 and RTE. Therefore no
the trophy . be higher, given that they’ve had to over 17, with two-year gaps deemed be greater clarity with regard to its shouldn’t be in statute and one rule in other broadcaster has the rights to
work that bit harder throughout their to be the optimum to allow a player effectiveness. football that is rarely, if ever, enforced televise any of these games.
TALENT ACADEMY REPORT development pathway. to develop at their own level. It is is the rule which states that the ball Once again Ulster GAA helped broker
The “Talent Academy and Player accepted that there are many who There will also be occasions when it may be carried “for a maximum of an agreement where the BBC were
Development Review Committee This report outlines a clear Player prefer the even age grade system, will be difficult for the ‘inside’ players four consecutive steps...” indeed if able to simulcast any game in the
Report” was launched in late Pathway Framework which charts citing the importance of U-18 level to know exactly if the ball has been any referee tried to enforce this rule Ulster Championship that RTE was
November in each of the four a journey through eight stages when many are in their final year delivered from inside or outside the chaos would ensue and the game showing ‘live’ and, additionally, we
provinces. It’s a thoroughly for players from introduction at of second level school. There is 45m line and this will result in players would turn into a farce. This rule were able to negotiate a position
researched and reasoned report Foundation level to Elite (senior inter- no perfect solution but what is calling for ‘the mark’ but not being relates to a time when the ‘running that the BBC were able to show ‘live’
which in time could prove to be county) level. The report recognises undisputable is the alarming drop-out given it. Only time will tell however if game’ was not as prevalent as it is two other Ulster Championship
among one of the most important that the majority of players won’t rates of players above the age of 18. it will prove to be as successful as the today and the rule is no longer fit for games that were not being televised
documents that the GAA have progress beyond the third stage This report provides scientific basis ‘kick-out mark.’ purpose in the modern game. Quite by either RTE or Sky Television. In
produced. For this to be achieved it (Foundation 3 level) and therefore, for its conclusions – it deserves to be simply the rule has not kept pace with order to achieve this however the
will require ‘buy-in’ at all levels. crucially, places the club and not the given a chance. The idea of two referees is something the changing science of the game. throw-in times of these games had
county at the centre of the player’s that has gained traction in recent This needs to be urgently addressed. to be scheduled to avoid any direct
The GAA has produced numerous developmental pathway. The report PLAYING RULE CHANGES times. Higher levels of fitness There may be varying views as to what clash with RTE’s or Sky’s coverage
reports down the years on fixtures makes clear that the club is best The Special Congress held at Páirc amongst players, particularly at inter- the appropriate number of steps may of other games. In addition the BBC
reform, player welfare, player burnout placed to lead on player development, Uí Chaoimh in mid-October passed county level, appear to strengthen be, but I would have thought that six were given permission to show full
but what was missing was a proper with support as required from school a number of football rule changes the case. Research by the Standing would be an absolute minimum. deferred coverage of each Ulster
pathway for a player to achieve and county level. which had been trialled during last Committee on Playing Rules during Championship game that wasn’t
their own potential. Every player year’s pre-season and Allianz League last year’s Allianz Leagues show MATCH ATTENDANCES screened ‘live.’
and every coach likes to win – that This Player Framework is underpinned competitions. The introduction of the that there is an average of four In 2018 Ulster Championship
goes without saying – but it is fair to by three further pillars, namely ‘sin bin’ for black card offences is a sideline balls per football game. I attendances fell below 100,000 As Sky TV screened one game in the
say that we’ve probably all become Governance, Stakeholder Education greater deterrent for cynical play than just wonder is this the best use of for the first time in many years. As Ulster Championship, five of our nine
somewhat guilty of placing too much and a regular Games Programme and what was previously the case, though these two officials? I accept that I highlighted in my report last year games in 2019 were shown ‘live’
emphasis on underage success. only when these four elements work there is a danger that some players they have other duties, such as there were a variety of reasons for this on TV, with the other four given full
This report however points out that in synchronisation will full potential may be tempted to ‘feign’ injury bringing infractions to the attention and most of these factors still remain. deferred coverage. No other province
there is limited correlation between be realised. during the period that their colleague of the referee, but surely there is an However when the draw for the 2019 can boast this level of exposure.
underage success and senior is in the bin, given that the penalty arguable case for two referees and no Ulster Championship was made I
success. Underage success can at In order to bring synergy between is ten minutes in total as opposed to linesmen – you would actually reduce predicted that there would be a rise in On the club front three Ulster Club
times be distorted by the presence of club and inter-county competitions, ten minutes of playing time. It will the number of officials needed on attendances and that proved to be the Championship games were shown
one or two very talented players, plus the report recommends that all therefore place an additional onus on match day (the fourth official could case. Almost 135,000 patrons passed ‘live’ (TG4 two and RTE one) and the
the fact that young people physically counties prioritise competitions referees to be vigilant in this regard. act as stand-by referee if required). through our gates, although the drawn BBC have greatly enhanced their
develop at different ages, and it is at U-13, U-15 and U-17 levels with at semi-final between Cavan and Armagh digital content, as we continue to
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explore a range of options which will also winners of the Inter-Provincial this time aimed at the older Key Stage The information obtained from the
allow for greater exposure on that League and I congratulate them on 2 (Primary 5-7) age bracket. audit will help inform Ulster GAA’s
network. Included in this increased that achievement. next Strategic Plan, which is presently
digital coverage was the ‘live’ This Programme has a greater in developmental stage. I commend
streaming of the Ulster Club Football Over the period of the year we have emphasis on wellbeing and nutrition the county staff who are working
Championship fixture between been engaging intermittently with and it aims to raise the resilience, with Ulster GAA staff in gathering the
Crossmaglen Rangers and Clontibret. the Sports Institute NI. They have confidence and self-esteem of information and thank the clubs and
The inclusion of Ulster Championship supported some workshops and young children, many of whom are counties for their support for this vital
games screened by the BBC on the provided mentoring for some of our living in areas of social deprivation. and important area of work.
BBC iPlayer allows for games to staff. Engaging our high-performance The Programme aims to better
be viewed back from the Tuesday county managers and coaches the lives of over 24,000 children DERRY CITY
morning after it is played and this is a however remains a challenge, with across almost 300 schools. It is a Derry is Ireland’s fourth largest city
development which is to be welcomed, many of our counties displaying a partnership initiative between Ulster and on taking office at the end of
as is their increased coverage of club lack of willingness to engage and GAA, the Irish Football Association, 2016, I identified the development of
championship games played across preferring an in-house approach. the Department of Education and the gaelic games in the city as a priority
the nine counties. That said, there has been tremendous Education Authority and it is presently for Ulster GAA. It was a view shared
co-operation in sharing video footage operating at a scale which is around by the Council and in 2018 a Strategic
COACHING AND GAMES between counties and this is working 50% of the previous KS1 Programme. Working Group was established to
DEVELOPMENT to the benefit of all. It has enabled Ulster GAA to employ 11 identify and prioritise the requirements
The Coaching and Games new staff members. necessary to enhance our games in
Development team continue to work I extend my thanks to the Director the city.
across the Association supporting the players, volunteers and coach cutting edge in providing activity of Coaching & Games Dr Eugene The ‘shared future’ element of the
championship, cross-community work developers. The primary focus was to both our participation and Young, his senior staff Roger Keenan Programme is another example of The Workgroup, which had a
and concentrating on coaching and on providing support directly in the performance base. I continue to (Coach Education), Kevin Kelly Ulster GAA helping to deliver on a membership from a wide stakeholder
games development programmes. club. This reinforces our desire to value the support offered through (Hurling Development), Jimmy key Executive priority and is a further group from both within and outside
Ulster GAA also recruited Eoin ensure that what we continue to the Department for Education, Darragh (Games Manager) and their manifestation of how sport can bring the city, presented their initial findings
McNicholl in Sports Science and his deliver and support our grassroots National GAA and our sponsors. A respective staff teams for their co- people together. I thank all those to the Ulster Council at the end of
work has already extended into the in clubs. The participation blitzes strong relationship with Sport NI operation and for the co-ordination who worked tirelessly to re-instigate 2018. From the extensive research
Championship Referees Academy, the and tournaments, the coach has provided us with an opportunity of their various programmes. Thanks a primary schools programme and undertaken by the group it was clear
Key Stage 2 Primary School Coaching education engagement and the to target areas of high social need, also go out to the Chairman of the I hope and trust that sufficient to the Council that there was a serious
and the development of the new volunteer development programmes engage with people with both Coaching & Games Committee John funding will be found to enable the gaelic games deficit in the city and
athletic development programmes. are designed to help our clubs be learning and physical disabilities and Connolly for his excellent work in Programme to continue beyond the group were tasked with identifying
better organised and provide a increase female participation. driving the work of the Coaching and March 2020. priorities and exploring potential
We continue to challenge staff and top-class experience for our player. There was great delight when the Games team and to Danny McLernon funding opportunities.
support them with opportunities for The emergence of the new Talent Ulster GAA Wheelchair Hurling (Secretary) and the other committee CLUB AUDIT
staff development in-house. They are Academy Report, which I referred to Programme received the top members for capturing the essence Ulster GAA is presently undertaking Derry is a city that has a projected
also encouraged to pursue additional earlier in my report, will place an even prize at the National Lottery 25th of the wide portfolio of activity and a questionnaire audit of all the clubs population growth over the next
qualifications externally with some greater emphasis on the club and Anniversary Awards in London and having informed and mature debate in the province in order to capture twenty years and the finalised report,
currently finishing their degree the requirement to provide a quality they later featured on the BBCs One in relation to same. key data which we don’t presently which was presented in the early
qualification. As we wait for the experience and developmental Show. Much credit must go to Shane hold. This is a gap which needs to be autumn of 2019 and is entitled “The
outcome of the National HR Review, environment for all players. McCann and Paul Callaghan for the CURRICULUM SPORTS addressed and as well as providing GAA’s 2020 Vision for Derry City”,
we see the importance of valuing our effort they put into this increasingly PROGRAMME core information to the Council, the makes a compelling case for additional
employees as a resource core to what The diversity of programmes is popular programme and three At last year’s Convention we were subsequent feedback will help clubs resources to grow and foster gaelic
we do. constantly evaluated and this is members of the team played on the lamenting the loss of the Key Stage 1 and counties plan for the future with games in the city.
proper in order to deliver optimum first ever Irish Wheelchair Hurling Curriculum Sports Programme which the benefit of key baseline information.
2019 has been a busy period with service to our membership. It is team when they competed in an had operated for over a decade. This It will also be highly beneficial to I thank the committee under the
over 142,000 individual programme important that we continue to international tournament in The year there is a more positive outlook units applying for any future funding Chair of John Keenan for the forensic
engagements, through 2,170 events challenge ourselves to be at the Netherlands. The Ulster team were with the creation in the summer of a programmes that may arise. manner in which they conducted
which involved coaches, referees, new Curriculum Sports Programme, their business and I make special
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reference to the efforts of Bobby Farren Earlier in my report I referred to the The Third Level Committee has SAFEGUARDING & CHILD ensures that the work of the will be completed before the end of
in compiling the report, which has “Report of The Fixtures Calendar brought forward the finishing dates PROTECTION Safeguarding team across Ulster March 2020.
had a sympathetic hearing at county, Review Task Force” and the impact it for the Sigerson and Fitzgibbon Cups 2019 has shown that this continues continues to be to the fore. All this
provincial and national levels. could have on the inter-county game in 2020 and are well inside the Task to be a very challenging area of our is possible due to the diligence Over the past 10 years Ulster GAA
and it will also impact significantly on Force recommendation to have these Governance work. On a daily basis and expertise of the Ulster GAA has developed expertise in our team
SCHOOLS & COLLEGES the playing of games at both second competitions completed by the fifth we are providing assistance to our Safeguaring Team, who I will in respect of safety certification
Once again the Ulster schools and third levels. The recommendation and seventh Sundays’ of the constituent units as they navigate personally reference later in my and compliance and it was very
Committee delivered a games that the All-Ireland Schools Finals Year respectively. very complex and sensitive matters report. I commend also our County useful for our colleagues in London
programme that catered for over 70 should be completed by the last in their work and continue to be a Chairpersons’ and Childrens Officers’ and Britain GAA in 2019 as we have
competitions across both hurling and weekend in January (Football) and Whatever the final outcome of the source of advice and guidance to and all of those who support them offered support to assist them in their
football. The third level institutions in the weekend after St. Patrick’s Day changes, it is vital that schools and them as they manage these issues. in this challenging but vital area of dealings with local authorities and
the province continued to compete (Hurling) will be challenging and will third level teams have ‘first call’ on We have wonderful volunteers within work. the Sports Grounds Safety Authority
and be competitive at all levels and call for a radical re-think in how senior their players during their designated our clubs and counties who give up in achieving a safety certificate
there can be no doubting the influence second level games are timetabled. competition times. This is to the so much of their time freely to the INFRASTRUCTURE for Ruislip following its recent
that both second and third level Within Ulster it may result in, for benefit of not only the schools/ benefit of others. It is imperative During 2019 Ulster Council GAA has modernisation. This support will
colleges can have on the development example, the Mageean Cup being colleges but also our clubs and that they are adequately trained and worked closely with our County continue in 2020.
of young people across many facets of played in a February/early March slot, counties – and, most importantly of all, appropriately vetted before they take Committees in bringing forward
life. I thank everyone involved in both rather than in its traditional the player. In a province where football up their role working with children development proposals for the I wish to congratulate our Counties
the coaching and administration of autumn slot. is the predominant gaelic sport, this in within the Association and are then improvement of various projects in for the tremendous physical assets
the games in these institutions and reality means the months of December supported by club committees as the Province. that they provide for the GAA in
commend you highly for your ongoing and January. Surely this is not too they carry out their functions. this Province and recognise their
devotion to Gaelic Games. much to ask. Our Provincial representative on continuous appetite to invest and
Club Chairpersons’, ably assisted by the National Infrastructure and improve in both county grounds and
their Club Childrens Officers’ must Health & Safety Committee, Stephen training centres.
continue to lead on Safeguarding McGeehan has assisted our units to
matters and ensure that they are bring forward proposals for Corrigan CASEMENT PARK PROJECT
compliant with legal and best Park, Belfast; Polo Grounds Centre for On our major strategic Provincial
practice requirements so as to Excellence, Cavan; Down GAA Training Council capital project at Casement
create and maintain a safe, fun and Centre at Ballykinlar and Fermanagh Park, 2019 comes to an end much
enjoyable environment in which GAA Training Centre at Lissan. like the previous year, in that, we
our children and young people can are once again responding to a
participate and flourish in Gaelic In early 2020 further developmental request for Further Environmental
Games and Activities. training centre projects in Armagh Information from the Department for
and Tyrone and improvements at Infrastructure (DfI).
I welcome and encourage that all St Tiernach’s Park, Clones will be
members continue to respectfully brought forward. This is important It is almost three years since the
challenge behaviour that they and necessary work. planning application was lodged and
know not to be appropriate through In relation to designated venues in we have recently written to every
the channels that exist within the the North, I am delighted to announce unit of the GAA in Ulster to respond
structures of the Associations and that through the work of Stephen, directly to the understandable
are never afraid to raise issues supported by Liam Nelis, we have also frustration that is building up
particularly in relation to matters of a recently secured investment from amongst our membership.
Safeguarding nature. Sport Northern Ireland for some CCTV
and PA improvements at some of our I am greatly encouraged with the
I wish to acknowledge and thank smaller, but no less important venues response we have received to our
the Ulster GAA Safeguarding where club, county and provincial communication and the support
team, the members of an Choiste fixtures are played. This is a very that has come from Gaels across
Slánchumhdaithe Uladh, chaired welcome development. I wish venue the Province, who fully realise
by Anne Fortune, whose leadership operators well with these works that that we must do all we can to
54 AN CHOMHDHÁIL BHLIANTÚIL 2020 ANNUAL CONVENTION 2020 55You can also read
