‘Paramilitary names could cost GAA’ – Minister
Funding at GAA clubs could be withdrawn if they adopt the names of dead paramilitaries, the Sports Minister warned on Monday.
Officials are examining clauses in Sport NI‘s grant-making arrangements to advise if changes should be considered, Nelson McCausland said.
He added there was no place in sport for the naming of clubs, grounds or competitions after dead IRA men.
The GAA is to investigate August’s hunger strike commemoration at Galbally, Co Tyrone, after photos of people dressed in balaclavas carrying replica weapons were placed on the internet – although Sinn Fein disputes whether they were connected to the club.
Mr McCausland said: “Sport NI funding programmes have an equality clause as a standard condition of their grants Sport NI may suspend, reduce or stop payments or reclaim the grant in full if this clause is breached.
“Whilst not constituting a breach of this clause, I believe there is no place in sport for the naming of clubs, grounds and/or competitions after deceased terrorists and this practice is certainly not in keeping with the promotion of good relations as required under the equality legislation.”
The DUP minister was asked about funding ramifications by party colleague Mervyn Storey at the Assembly.
The minister added: “I have asked officials to review the equity clause in the current terms and conditions and to advise if changes should be considered.
“Any change should reflect that sport makes an important contribution to a shared and better future, one in which terrorism and sport cannot be mixed.”
