CLG ULADH An Chomhdháil Bhliantúíl 2017

NAOMH MHUIRE, BOIREANN, AN DÚN 28Ú EANÁIR 2017 CLUICHÍ | CULTÚR | TEANGA #WeAreUlsterGAA

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 05 // Tuarascáil an Rúnaí

A chairde, foundation in 1903 the Council on 5 December 2016 and was looking has made an indelible mark on GAA forward to working alongside Danny For generation after generation the history and I look forward to working for two months during my ‘bedding innate strength of the GAA has been with so many talented individuals in’ period. Alas, this was not to be its ability to attract and secure the across the Ulster GAA family as we as nature took its course and on the devotion and respect of people to strive to build on the wonderful and morning of 7 December Danny sadly selflessly give of their time through unique ethos of the Association. departed this world. a sense of loyalty to club and community. Big challenges lie ahead but, as we Danny was many things but above all have always done, we will meet them he was a man of great compassion, From its formative times the GAA ideal head-on and at all times ensure that devotion and understanding. He was to have a club in every parish and the best interests of the GAA in Ulster accomplished so much in his 67 years the greatest decision ever taken by are protected. Ulster GAA, with its and left this world as he entered it – a GAA administrators was to place the great clubs, schools and counties, friend of all. He was, as the saying club, the basic unit of the Association, is very relevant in Irish society and goes, ‘some man for one man.’ In at the heart of the local community. makes a positive contribution far and recent years Danny fought his illness Basing the GAA club on the local beyond the playing fields and I am with great bravery and courage parish has sustained the Association committed to ensuring that Ulster GAA and indeed his strength and steely since its inception and explains its will continue to be the progressive and determination undoubtedly carried him great strength, particularly in rural respected organisation that it is today. through some difficult periods during . this time. He remained steadfast to Dónall Ó Murchú the end and despite his failing health The GAA today is a modern, vibrant undertook engagements to the end. organisation that has grown immensely “If a man hasn’t discovered something On 25 November he was honoured since its turbulent early years. It is to die for, he isn’t fit to live” with the South Down GAA Hall of a confident organisation that has Fame and two days later attended the a presence across the globe and The year 2016 will always be Ulster Club Football final in . which makes a telling and powerful remembered by the Gaels of Ulster Ten days later he left us for the last contribution to the lives of the Irish for the death of our esteemed Rúnaí time. diaspora. Dónall Ó Murchú. Dr. Danny Murphy served the GAA in many capacities at In an inspirational tribute at his funeral, That said, events of 2016 have club, , provincial and national GAA President Aogán O Fearghail cast an uncertainty which has the levels, but most people came to know said that; ‘The Mourne mountains are potential to impact on our affairs Danny through his involvement with made of granite and Danny was made going forward. The impact of Brexit Comhairle Uladh. He served on the of the same stuff.’ A man of wisdom, has yet to be realised but one thing Council for almost 35 years, first as a integrity and strength, Danny was a is certain – Ulster will be affected Down delegate and then as Cisteoir, great Irishman and he had a wonderful more than any other and it Leas Uachtaráin, Uachtaráin and Rúnaí. love of all things Irish. He lived this to is important that the GAA voice, with Between 1997 and 2001 Danny was his death – how fitting are the words its all island structures, is heard during Acting Rúnaí before his appointment above of his great icon Martin Luther the ‘negotiation’ period. Meanwhile became permanent and for three King! the Trump Presidency could have years he served as Acting Rúnaí and repercussions for the ‘undocumented’ President at the same time – who Danny enriched the lives of those Irish in the USA, many of whom find other than Danny could have managed among us who were privileged to great solace and support from their to combine such challenging roles? know him and his contribution to involvement with the GAA. GAA life, particularly in Ulster, has On 1 August Danny announced that been immense. Ulster GAA today is Just last month I was honoured and he was standing down, though it was an organisation that makes a real and privileged to become the eleventh his intention to remain in post until 1 lasting impact into the lives of so many Rúnaí of Comhairle Uladh. Since its February 2017. I formally took up post and has spread its wings reaching

36 AN CHOMHDHÁIL BHLIANTÚÍL 2017 #WeAreUlsterGAA

TUARASCÁIL AN RÚNAÍ “IF A MAN HASN’T DISCOVERED SOMETHING TO DIE FOR, HE ISN’T FIT TO LIVE”

communities that could be described We had many great times together, and support in ensuring that a difficult in GAA terms as being ‘non traditional’. not least in 1991 when as Cathaoirleach logistical operation ran smoothly from It is a very different Ulster GAA than and Rúnaí of Coiste Chontae An Duin start to finish. Above all I thank and that which Danny inherited when he we had the honour of welcoming ‘Sam commend the Murphy family for their became Rúnaí Comhairle Uladh and Maguire’ back to the Mournes after a dignity throughout and their unstinting the expansive portfolio of activity is in 23 year absence. Our time together at support for the ‘GAA family’ during many ways his legacy. His Honorary Ulster GAA was all too short but I know this time. degree from and Danny took comfort in his final days his recognition at the highest levels that the process to find his successor Throughout his lifetime of involvement of government, including a reception had been completed. I hope and trust with the GAA Danny received the total hosted by First Minister Arlene Foster that I will not disappoint him. support of his family and we owe them and deputy First Minister Martin a huge debt of gratitude. I also thank McGuinness, are testament to Danny’s Danny’s wake and funeral was a fitting all others, too numerous to mention, ground breaking work and the esteem testimony to his brilliant life and I who made such a telling contribution in which he was held – he did indeed wish to place on record my sincere for an occasion from which we can serve Ulster well. thanks and gratitude to my colleagues take great pride, even though it was at Ulster GAA, the Down County tinged with great sadness. I knew Danny from childhood – we Committee, Fr. Charlie Byrne PP, the were in fact related - and I’ll miss his PSNI and in particular St. Mary’s GAC, Sleep well dear friend! friendship, advice and wise counsel. Burren for their co-operation, efforts

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 37 #WeAreUlsterGAA

TUARASCÁIL AN RÚNAÍ 05

CONVENTION IN BURREN FINANCE traditional methods of obtaining match In January 1990 I was elected as Down Our Championship attendances tickets. We shall continue to support GAA County Secretary and later that were up in 2016 on the previous year the enhancement of Community month the Ulster GAA Convention was from 142, 691 to 172, 693 but this development and to this end will seek held at my beloved St. Mary’s GAA was largely due to the fact that both to maintain our investment in games, Club in Burren. Twenty seven years Senior Football Championship semi- games development and areas of later history is repeating itself as the finals necessitated replays. While physical development. Ulster Convention returns to Burren. accepting that these are challenging and uncertain times economically, our Our team of stewards from the Today’s venue was chosen long before games remain attractive and at this Counties, the team officials and I took office as Rúnaí Comhairle Uladh stage it is important to acknowledge members of Comhairle Uladh have and would have marked the final and thank all our patrons and been of great assistance in organising farewell of Danny Murphy’s tenure on supporters who continue to turn out in a very substantial games programme the Council. But while Danny may all-weather to attend our games. and without their continuing efforts not be here with us today he is all we would be unable to maintain around us and it is truly fitting that The income of Comhairle Uladh major input into all aspects of the we are gathered in Burren today to amounted to €6,255,602 inclusive games programme. I acknowledge the not only review the past year but of all grants. Our gate income, dedication and commitment of all who also to remember Danny and his €1,983,844 represented 32% of this have given so generously of their time achievements. compared to 26% of the total income throughout the year and thank them in 2015. In 2016 our grant income, for it. They all do so in a voluntary Just a few short months ago the €1,145,378, represents 18% of our total capacity and that includes many people of Burren and further afield in comparison to 23% in 2015. The members of staff who are also vital to – some of who are here today - expenditure amounted to €5,985,335 our work on match days. No words can gathered in this very same room which led to an operating surplus of adequately convey the appreciation to witness Danny being bestowed €270,267. In addition, the investment that these people deserve. with the accolade of Honorary Life in Grounds and Infrastructure of President of Burren GAA Club with €113,850 and currency exchange An Cisteoir, Ciarán Mac Lochlainn is the ceremony being preceded by a loss on the Project of a tremendously committed person beautiful mass of thanksgiving at St. €596,164 led to a total deficit for the who has rendered great work to the Mary’s Church. It was an honour that year of €439,747. This deficit was Council throughout the year and on Danny richly cherished and one that transferred to our accumulated funds. many fronts. We are very grateful to he valued highly in his long list of We are grateful to the Finance and him for his exemplary work on our commendations. Governance Workgroup and Brendan behalf. The vital work of Michelle Waters for their guidance on this very McAleer, our Head of Business and How fitting it was that this was Down’s important work. We acknowledge the Finance has also been outstanding year to host the Ulster Convention grants from DfC and Ard Comhairle in and her contribution to our work has and how fitting that the Down County respect of the Casement Park Project. been beyond the call of duty. Paul Committee chose Burren as the venue. Sanders plays a vital role within the Yes, it would have been lovely to have The Marketing of our games has been Finance team and his knowledge and had Danny here for his final Ulster very substantially maintained and this understanding of control mechanisms Convention and to have the formal in turn has seen a continued increase and legal requirements are vital to the passing of the baton of Rúnaí from one in online sales of tickets for games workings of Ulster GAA. Rose Treanor Burren man to another; from one Down ensuring that those attending our plays an important role in relation to man to another; from one Ulster man games can pre - purchase tickets either match ticketing and makes a telling to another, but Danny will be looking through our units or via tickets.ie or contribution to overall governance down on us – and there will no doubt through sponsors outlets. This is a procedures within the organisation, be times when we will imagine him welcome development though it must while Rúairí Cunningham has recently intervening on some issue or other! be accepted that the vast majority joined the team. of our members prefer the more

38 AN CHOMHDHÁIL BHLIANTÚÍL 2017 #WeAreUlsterGAA

PROVINCIAL COMPETITIONS saw a total of 32 clubs involved, with my gratitude to Bank of Ireland for In 2016, the Anglo Celt Cup was 10 teams in senior and 22 teams in their continued sponsorship of this reclaimed by Tír Eoghain after a six intermediate. (Doire) and important competition in the Ulster year lapse while Aontroim again won Loughmacrory (Tír Eoghain) won the GAA calendar. the Liam Harvey Cup. The Ulster Club Senior and Intermediate finals, with Championships continue to enthuse both finals being great spectacles. This SENIOR FOOTBALL our players and spectators. Slaughtneil competition again provided clubs with CHAMPIONSHIP became the first club to win competitive action at their appropriate The 2016 Ulster Senior Football the Ulster Club title as they level prior to the commencement Championship commenced at Brewster defeated Loughgiel in a great final at of their internal county games Park on Sunday 15th May, where Fear the . Remarkably, programmes. Manach defeated Aontroim by 1-12 to the same club collected the Seamus 0-09. Seven days later, in , McFerran Cup as they edged out Ulster had three representatives a goal burst at the end of the first half Kilcoo in the football final at the in the National Football League saw Tír Eoghain comfortably see off Athletic Grounds in front of over 9,000 Finals, with contrasting results. Tír their Doíre neighbours by 3-14 to 0-12. spectators. This is an unbelievable Eoghain defeated An Cabhán in the The following Sunday, An Cabhán achievement for the Derry club and the Division 2 decider, while Aontroim saw off Ard Mhacha by 2-16 to 0-14 at fact that their camogs also won the lost out to An Lú in the Division 4 Kingspan to progress to provincial title ensures that 2016 will Final. Congratulations to Tír Eoghain the quarter final stage. forever be remembered by the Robert while An Cabhán and Aontroim will Emmet’s. be comforted by the fact that they This trend continued the following gained promotion and will start 2017 weekend as Muineachán demolished Both club finals were played as double in a higher division. With regards to An Dún 2-22 to 0-09. In the last Ulster headers illustrating the great strides hurling, we had representation in the Senior Football Championship quarter that have been made in integration Ring and Rackard Finals. In the Christy final at the Athletic Grounds, Dún na and working with key stakeholders Ring Final, An Mhí were deemed to nGall produced a brilliant second half throughout the province. The Ulster have won by a point but the referees showing as they defeated a spirited Hurling Club Final was played with the report showed that it was actually Fear Manach side on a 2-12 to 0-11 Ulster Final while the Ulster a draw and CCCC ordered a replay. scoreline at Pairc MacCumhaill. Football Club Final was played with the Ironically, at the second time of asking Ulster Schools’ Rannafast Cup Final. An Mhí defeated Aontroim by a point In the first semi final, the Ulster in a fantastic game on a 4-21 to 5-17 Championship sprung to life with An 2016 saw the fifth year of the Tain scoreline and therefore, claiming the Cabhán bagging a last minute goal to Adult Club Hurling League. This Cup and entry into the earn a 3-07 to 0-16 draw against Tír initiative saw a total of 25 teams 2017 All Ireland Qualifiers. In the Eoghain at St Tiernach’s Park. The compete from across the province of Final there was also following Saturday night in Kingspan Ulster as well as teams from Louth. disappointment for Ulster as Ard Breffni Park, Dún na nGall and The Connacht clubs who originally Mhacha were defeated 2-16 to 1-15 by Muineachán also played out a thrilling competed were again incorporated Maigh Eo. 1-11 to 0-14 draw. into the Connacht section. There were a total of three divisions. Carrickmore In our first competition of the year, The following weekend at the same Eire Og (Tír Eoghain), Liatroim (An the Dr McKenna Cup, Tír Eoghain venue, Dún na nGall progressed via a Dún) and Naomh Monnine (An Lú) again collected the title by defeating 0-17 to 2-10 scoreline in a thoroughly emerged as the Division 1, 2 and 3 Doire by 1-22 to 1-17 after extra time absorbing encounter. The following winners respectively. With regard to at another well attended final at day, Tír Eoghain eased to a 5-18 to 2-17 the Ulster Football Club League, 2016 the Athletic Grounds. I also extend victory over the Breffni men.

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 39 #WeAreUlsterGAA

The Ulster Final took place two weeks later where Dún na nGall and Tír Eoghain met at St Tiernach’s Park, Clones on Sunday 19th July. Over 32,000 spectators attended the Final on a day when the Ulster Senior Football Champions from 25 years previous, An Dún were honoured alongside the Tír Eoghain side of 1956 who claimed the county’s first ever Anglo Celt Cup sixty years ago.

With the inclusion of honouring the successful teams from the past, Cumann na mBunscoil exhibition games, band entertainment, the Minor Football Final and the Senior showpiece, Ulster Final day continues to be a celebration of our great Association in the province of Ulster. The game was a titanic tussle between two great teams that was in the balance until the last minute.

Tír Eoghain however displayed a greater cutting edge at the death and helped by two wonder scores from Sean Cavanagh and emerged as 0-13 to 0-11 champions in an intriguing encounter. The scenes of jubilation at the final whistle from a county who had retained the Ulster Championship after a six-year gap were memorable and congratulations go to Tír Eoghain for a well deserved success.

The 2017 Ulster Senior Football Championship will be played over a shortened period with the Preliminary Round and the first Quarter Final taking place over the weekend of 20th / 21st May. This is a departure from a long standing tradition in the province and moving forward this is an area which I feel has potential for further streamlining and every week gained for club activity at this time of the year can only be beneficial for our clubs.

40 AN CHOMHDHÁIL BHLIANTÚÍL 2017 #WeAreUlsterGAA

TUARASCÁIL AN RÚNAÍ 05

ALL-IRELAND FOOTBALL football. In the last 12, beaten Ulster 1-11 to collect the Fr Murray Cup. I CHAMPIONSHIP finalists Dún na nGall kicked 21 points congratulate Dún na nGall on a well The All-Ireland Senior Football in Croke Park to defeat Corcaigh. deserved success. Championship for Ulster However, the following weekend in representatives began on 18th June the All Ireland Quarter Finals back In the All Ireland Quarter Finals, there with both Ard Mhacha and Doire at headquarters a late Paul Mannion were contrasting fortunes for our two involved. The Oak Leaf County had a goal saw a gallant Dún na nGall fall representatives. Doire were beaten good 1-18 to 2-10 victory over An Lú to Áth Cliath by 1-15 to 1-10. The same by the eventual champions, Ciarrai at Owenbeg. Ard Mhacha travelled afternoon saw the Ulster involvement on a scoreline of 1-24 to 2-10 at Croke to Portlaoise where they were beaten end as Maigh Eo overcame Tír Eoghain Park. Two goals were the difference by three points. However, it later by 0-13 to 0-12 in a tight affair. as Dún na nGall defeated Corcaigh the emerged that Laois used more than In relation to the 2016 GAA / GPA All previous day. On 21st August, Dún na their quota of substitutes during the Stars, I extend my congratulations to nGall lost out to Gaillimh by 2-12 to 1-11. game and the match was subsequently the three Ulster recipients, namely A disappointing end to the year for our replayed. However, the outcome was Ryan McHugh (Dún na nGall), Mattie Ulster champions, but the experience the same with Laois prevailing on a 1-11 Donnelly (Tír Eoghain) and Peter Harte of playing in such massive occasions to 1-10 scoreline on 2nd July. (Tír Eoghain). I also commend all in front of huge crowds will leave the recipients from our province that an indelible positive mark on these On 25th June, three of our counties collected Ring, Rackard and Meagher youngsters. were in action. Fear Manach travelled All Star Awards on the same night. to Wexford and came away with a UNDER 21 FOOTBALL good 0-19 to 1-11 win. It took extra time MINOR FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP to separate An Dún and Longfort and CHAMPIONSHIP This Championship continues to thrive it was the side that edged it The Ulster Minor Football in its current Wednesday night slot by 2-24 to 3-17 at Pairc Esler. Aontroim Championship continues to excite and in the fixture programme, where it also exited the All Ireland Qualifiers as entertain. These games are fitting does not directly impinge on counties they lost out to Luimneach at Corrigan curtain raisers on championship days preparations for National Football Park by 2-06 to 0-09. and 2016 again produced another Leagues and also benefits from an great competition. 2017 will see the increased interest from our spectators. On July 9th, four Ulster counties final year of the Under 18 Competition In 2018 this competition will become were involved with two of but it is hoped that the Under 17 an Under 20 grade and it is important them unfortunately exiting the equivalent can be accommodated as that the competition retains its current championship. Fear Manach, after a per the current arrangement in this place in the GAA calendar schedule. tremendous first half performance, province. In the Preliminary Round, were unlucky to lose out to a strong we were treated to a goal feast at In the Preliminary Round on finishing burst from Maigh Eo in a 2-14 Brewster Park as Aontroim beat Fear Wednesday 9th March, Doire defeated to 1-12 defeat in Castlebar. On the same Manach by 4-10 to 2-12. In the Aontroim by 0-16 to 0-11 at Celtic evening, Muineachán were surprisingly quarter finals, there were wins for Park. On Wednesday 16th March, beaten in Clones by Longfort on a 2-13 Doire, Ard Mhacha, Dún na nGall and the four quarter finals took place to 1-13 scoreline. On a brighter note, Muineachán. In the semi-finals, Doire and there were wins for Tír Eoghain, An Cabhán and Doire progressed at beat Ard Mhacha by 1-14 to 0-14 after Dún na nGall, Muineachán and Ard the expense of Ceatharleach and An extra time in Clones while Dún na nGall Mhacha. In the semi finals, Tír Eoghain Mhí. beat Muineachán by 3-15 to 2-12 in defeated Dún na nGall at Celtic Park a cracking game in Kingspan Breffni and Muineachán beat Ard Mhacha at In the all Ulster clash on 16th July, Park. Pairc Esler. Doire edged out An Cabhán by 1-17 to 0-18 at Kingspan Breffni Park. They The final meeting brought together The following week, Muineachán and returned there one week later, only to Doire and Dún na nGall in a game Tír Eoghain played out an enthralling lose out this time to Tiobraid Arann which Dún na nGall controlled for encounter in front of a large crowd by 1-21 to 2-17 in a brilliant game of long periods and won out by 2-10 to at the Athletic Grounds in Armagh.

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 41 #WeAreUlsterGAA

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 THE 2016 ULSTER SENIOR HURLING FINAL WAS PLAYED AT OWENBEG ON 10TH JULY IN FRONT OF A REALLY GOOD CROWD AND THOSE IN ATTENDANCE WERE TREATED TO ANOTHER GREAT SPECTACLE OF INTER COUNTY HURLING.

Muineachán held on to win by 0-13 competition which included a number Kingspan Breffni Park in the All Ireland to 0-11 scoreline to secure their first of great games. The Intermediate Senior Semi Final. Ulster Under 21 Football title since and Junior Finals were played as a 1999. Congratulations to Muineachán double header in Pairc Esler and it was In the All Ireland Intermediate Club on this historic achievement. In the All a fitting end to another great year of Championship on 24th January 2016, Ireland Semi Final, played in Tullamore, activity on our playing fields. Loughinisland faced Hollymount Corcaigh just held out to win on a 0-13 The Intermediate Football Club Carramore and were beaten by 0-15 to to 0-11 scoreline. Championship remains an extremely 0-10 in the same venue. In the Junior competitive grade and 2016 was no grade, Rockcorry were also beaten at CLUB FOOTBALL different. In the Preliminary Round, the Semi Final stage, on a 0-11 to 0-06 CHAMPIONSHIP Bredagh defeated Burt at Letterkenny. scoreline at Carrick on Shannon to end The Ulster Club Championship still has In the Quarter Finals, there were their involvement. that lure for our supporters and the wins for Castledawson, Pomeroy, local aspect means that all clubs at all Aghgallon and Donaghmoyne over SENIOR HURLING levels can aspire to the greatest stage Whitecross, Arva, Kinawley and CHAMPIONSHIP throughout the province and indeed, Bredagh respectively. In the Semi The 2016 Championship was a four Croke Park. In the Preliminary Round, Finals, we were treated to two brilliant county competition with the Shield Kilcoo saw off the challenge from 2015 encounters. Donaghmoyne came back including another four counties. An finalists Scotstown. In the Quarter from a seemingly impossible position Cabhán did not field a senior team at Finals, there were wins for Killyclogher, to defeat by 2-14 to 3-10 any level in 2016. Slaughtneil, Maghery and Kilcoo over while Pomeroy recovered from an early Cargin, Derrygonnelly Harps, Ramor Castledawson blitz to win out by 1-16 In the Senior Hurling Championship United and Glenswilly respectively. to 2-11. In the Final, played at Pairc Semi Finals played as a double header Esler, a tight first half left only three at the Athletic Grounds, Aontroim At the Semi Final stage, Kilcoo showed points in it at half time, but Pomeroy defeated Doire by 3-28 to 0-14 and Ard their experience to outscore Maghery took control in the second half as Mhacha beat An Dún by 4-12 to 0-17 on by 4-12 to 0-11 at Pairc Esler while in they ran out convincing winners on a 19th June. the other semi final at the Athletic scoreline of 2-16 to 0-10. Grounds, Slaughtneil did likewise The 2016 Ulster Senior Hurling Final as they defeated Killyclogher by 1-11 In the Junior Football Championship, was played at Owenbeg on 10th July in to 0-08. In the Final at the Athletic Tyrone winners Rock won their front of a really good crowd and those Grounds, Slaughtneil finished strongly Preliminary Round game against Con in attendance were treated to another against a well drilled Kilcoo side to Magees, Glenravel. In the Quarter great spectacle of inter county hurling. claim their second title in three years, Finals, there were wins for Blackhill, Aontroim produced a late rally to winning through on a final score of Downings, Newtownbutler and Rock retain the Liam Harvey Cup by virtue of 0-12 to 0-09. over Clonmore, Magilligan, Drumgath a 6-21 to 4-14 victory over Ard Mhacha. and Cornafean respectively. In the Semi Well done to all involved. The timing The 2016/17 All Ireland Senior Finals, there were wins for Blackhill and of this competition has been criticised Football Club Quarter Final pitted our Rock. The Junior Final was also played and in 2017, the Ulster Senior Hurling champions, Slaughtneil against the at Pairc Esler, and it required extra time Championship will be scheduled British champions, St Kiernan’s. Played to determine a winner as Rock claimed between the end of the Allianz Hurling on Sunday 11th December 2016, the their third title at this level in this last League and the commencement of Derry side ran out comfortable 2-11 to decade on a 1-12 to 0-14 scoreline. the Ring, Rackard and Meagher Cup 0-05 winners in Greenford, London Well done to all the club champions. competitions. While I will specifically and will now play St Vincent’s of deal with hurling in Ulster elsewhere in the All Ireland Semi Final in 2015/16 ALL IRELAND CLUB in this report, it is hoped that this February. FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP move will rejuvenate the Ulster In a great game of football on 13th Championship and counties should The 2016 Ulster Senior Club February 2016, Castlebar edged have the advantage of dealing with a Championship was a brilliant out by 0-13 to 0-12 at full squad during this timeframe.

42 AN CHOMHDHÁIL BHLIANTÚÍL 2017 #WeAreUlsterGAA

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 01

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 43 #WeAreUlsterGAA

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 05

The two tier system saw the were beaten by Maigh Eo by 1-18 to ULSTER CLUB HURLING introduction of the Ulster Senior 2-11 at Letterkenny. Tír Eoghain never CHAMPIONSHIP Hurling Shield involving Dún na nGall, reached the heights of 2015 and lost In the Ulster Senior Club Fear Manach, Muineachán and Tír out by 4-17 to 3-16 to Longfort. In the Championship, we were treated to Eoghain. Unfortunately, Tír Eoghain final, it was heartbreak again for Ard some great encounters. In the quarter did not field for their semi final Mhacha as Maigh Eo claimed the Nicky final, Middletown beat Lisbellaw against Muineachán while Dún na Rackard Cup on a 2-16 to 1-15 scoreline. by 2-16 to 2-10 at Crossmaglen. In nGall defeated Fear Manach by 3-18 the semi-finals, Slaughtneil beat to 3-14 at Brewster Park on 19th June. MINOR HURLING Middletown while Loughgiel easily One week later, Dún na nGall won the CHAMPIONSHIP accounted for Ballygalget. The Shield beating Muineachán by 5-13 to Five counties competed in the Ulster Ulster Final between Slaughtneil and 2-14 at Brewster Park. Minor Hurling Championship in 2016. Loughgiel was played as a double In the quarter final, Ard Mhacha header with the Ulster Senior Camogie ALL IRELAND HURLING defeated the shield winners, Dún na Final between the same two clubs and CHAMPIONSHIP nGall by 3-14 to 3-07 at Middletown. threw up a brilliant game of hurling. In the , Aontroim, In an extremely disappointing Slaughtneil were not to be denied An Dún and Doire were Ulster’s development Ard Mhacha then on this occasion as they claimed an representatives. Doire had a really withdrew from the competition before Ulster Senior Hurling Club title for the disappointing campaign and their their semi final clash with An Dún. first time on a 2-14 to 1-13 scoreline. relegation to the Rackard Cup was A tremendous success for the proud confirmed by a 1-21 to 1-14 to Maigh In the semi final played at Owenbeg, it Derry club. Eo at Ballinamore. An Dún were took extra time to separate Aontroim defeated by Aontroim at Loughgiel in and Doire. Aontroim eventually ran In the Intermediate Club Hurling a great game that ended 1-24 to 0-23. out 4-23 to 3-11 winners. A fortnight Championship, St Brigid’s, Cloughmills Aontroim faced An Mhí in the Christy later, the final brought Aontroim and collected the title at Ballymena, Ring Cup Final, twice. On 4th June, the An Dún together, again at Owenbeg. following wins over Eire Og, Keady and scoreline at the final whistle read 2-18 An impressive all round display after Eoghan Rua, Coleraine. In the Junior to 1-20 in favour of An Mhí, who were another slow start by Aontroim saw Final, Lamh Dhearg edged out Mac subsequently presented with the cup. them emerge victorious by 2-15 to Cumhaills by 0-16 to 0-13 in Owenbeg, However, the referee later clarified that 0-10. Well done to Aontroim. In the in a game that was marred by violent this was incorrect and the final score All Ireland Quarter Final, Aontroim scenes in the final minutes and which was a draw. were beaten by Gaillimh by 2-22 to did little to enhance the reputation of 0-08 at Kingspan Breffni Park. the game of hurling in the province. The re-fixture took place three weeks 2015/16 All Ireland Club Hurling UNDER 21 HURLING later, again in Croke Park and this time Championship CHAMPIONSHIP there was no doubt about the score, Four Ulster counties competed in as Meath won a thrilling 4-21 to 5-17 Ruairi Og Cushendall were Ulster’s the Under 21 Championship, which encounter that required extra time. representatives in the All Ireland Senior was played on a knock out basis An unbelievable game of hurling, but Club Championship, having won the again. The semi-finals saw Aontroim an extremely disappointing end to 2015 Ulster Club Championship. In finish strongly to defeat An Dún by Aontroim’s season and they will again the All Ireland Semi Final they met 1-21 to 1-18. The other game saw a ply their trade in the Christy Ring Cup Sarsfields from Galway and playing comprehensive win for Doire over Ard in 2017. some breathtaking hurling recorded a Mhacha at Crossmaglen. In the final memorable 3-12 to 1-06 win at Navan. played at Loughgiel, Aontroim claimed The saw Ard Unfortunately, on St Patrrick’s Day, the another title winning out by 0-16 to Mhacha, Dún na nGall, Fear Manach, huge Ruairi Og contingent went home 1-09. In the All Ireland Semi Final, Muineachán and Tír Eoghain as the disappointed after an outstanding team Aontroim came up against Port Lairge competitors from the province. Fear display from Na Piarsaigh of Limerick at Thurles and were comprehensively Manach and Muineachán were both saw the Munster champions claim the beaten by the incoming All Ireland eliminated by Dún na nGall who then Tommy Moore Cup at Croke Park. champions.

44 AN CHOMHDHÁIL BHLIANTÚÍL 2017 #WeAreUlsterGAA

TUARASCÁIL AN RÚNAÍ 05

After collecting the Ulster title Donnelly who had the honour of being for the competition in the GAA last October, Kickhams Creggan only the second Fermanagh man to calendar and while the crowds may represented Ulster in the All Ireland raise aloft this famous trophy, as Ulster not come as they once did and the series. On 24th January they were won the title for the 32nd time. TV stations may not wish to include beaten by Abbeyknockmoy at Navan it on their schedules, the competition by 1-13 to 0-09. That he dedicated the victory to Danny has a long and cherished history and Murphy, a proud exponent of the inter- that should remain the case. It could In the Junior grade, Eoghan Rua provincial competition, was a fine and be argued that the inter-provincial Coleraine defeated Sylane at fitting gesture. matches provided some of the best Ballyshannon in the All Ireland Semi entertainment of the year, and as one Final on 24th January to secure their I wish to thank both Peter McGrath Railway Cup winning captain recently place in Croke Park. Unfortunately, and Terence McNaughton and their said to me; ‘How else would I have got they were just edged out by Kilkenny respective management teams for the opportunity to play with such great side Glenmore by 2-08 to 0-12 but they their efforts in preparing both teams. footballers.’ It’s time to reclaim the had an eventful journey and have every The untimely death of Danny meant competition; not to bury it! reason to be proud of their season. some last minute re-scheduling of fixtures and arrangements but the REFEREES INTER PROVINCIAL management teams and players took it I wish to thank our match officials and CHAMPIONSHIPS in their stride and did Ulster proud by thank all our referees for their time, The Inter Provincial Championships in their performance. commitment and involvement in the both football and hurling remained on delivery of our games programme the games programme in 2016. Ulster I thank all the players who made which included 328 games in 25 are delighted that this was included themselves available for the inter- different competitions in 2016. Without in the fixture calendar in 2016 as we provincial Games and anyone who was referees, there are simply no games. faced Munster in both semi finals present in Carrick on Shannon were All of our referees make themselves on Sunday 11th December (having left in no doubt of the importance available and some at very short been postponed for a day due to the of this competition for those players notice. On behalf of Ulster GAA I say funeral of our esteemed Rúnaí Danny who wish to play in it. It was a highly thank you to all of our referees for their Murphy). I thank the CCCC and the competitive final played by two teams continued support. other provinces for their understanding who clearly wanted the honour of It is unacceptable to verbally or in accommodating our re-fixture winning an inter-provincial medal. physically abuse a referee and players request. The hurlers put in a great first and mentors, no matter how they feel half display but eventually lost out by Much has been written about the about a decision, should always treat 3-21 to 0-15 at , Thurles worth and future viability of this the referee like they would expect to against a very strong Munster side. competition. We must remember be treated themselves. Equally, being however we now live in a very different a referee does not entitle one to a The football side played Munster in era from the halcyon days of the bagful of hubris and when dealing with and a 2-7 scoring blitz Railway Cup in the 1940’s and 1950’s players and officials they too should before half time saw our lads emerge when thousands flocked to Croke Park behave with courtesy, while not in any 3-17 to 1-15 winners. In the final six for the finals every St. Patrick’s Day. way compromising their authority. days later against Connacht, played These were the days of pre televised at Pairc Mac Diarmada, Carrick on games and pre qualifiers and, apart Ulster GAA is well served by Stephen Shannon, Ulster recovered from from the train, modes of transportation Donnelly who gives an outstanding conceding two early goals to reduce were not what they are today. service to Coiste Cheannais na the deficit to two points at the break. Chomortaisi, our Counties, Referees, A Charlie Vernon goal twenty minutes But just like the railways, the inter- Clubs and to other fixture making from time proved to be the key score provincial competitions have declined bodies as required. His task is an of the game and Ulster proceeded to in recent times but that in itself is not onerous one but he undertakes his win through on a 2-16 to 3-10 scoreline sufficient reason for discontinuing duties with the minimum of fuss and and it was a proud captain Eoin them. A proper place must be found his hard work is greatly appreciated. I thank also the Referees Committee

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 45 #WeAreUlsterGAA

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 THE EXPLOITS OF THE SLAUGHTNEIL IN WINNING PROVINCIAL CLUB SENIOR TITLES IN FOOTBALL, HURLING AND CAMOGIE IS TRULY REMARKABLE AND NO WORDS OF MINE WILL EVER DO FULL JUSTICE TO THE HEROICS OF THIS GREAT GAA CLUB FROM SOUTH DERRY.

and in particular the work carried out the day as Slaughtneil fought back to more young people to our sports. In by Chair Jim Murray and Secretary earn a replay and they were not to be congratulating all winners of Ulster Jim O’Rourke in ensuring that our denied at the second time of asking Schools Competitions I believe that the referees are provided with high a week later. How fitting it was that recent success of Drumragh Integrated levels of support and that our games Thomas’s daughter Aoife, one of three School in winning the Danske Bank JJ are adequately covered with match Cassidy sisters on the team, should Reilly Cup is worthy of special mention, officials. have been the team captain in a year given the fact that it is the first time that was truly historic for the club. that an integrated school has won an SLAUGHTNEIL Ulster Schools competition. The exploits of the Slaughtneil Robert ULSTER SCHOOLS Emmet’s Club in winning provincial The amalgamation of Ulster Colleges ULSTER HURLING club senior titles in football, hurling and Ulster Vocational Schools into DEVELOPMENT and Camogie is truly remarkable and one entity is a positive development Hurling continues to provide a no words of mine will ever do full and one which will enhance even challenge throughout our Province. justice to the heroics of this great further the quality of competition that The drive to raise standards and GAA club from South Derry. So emanates from this sector. That said, to increase the number of games massive and unprecedented is their the contribution of Ulster colleges is ongoing and in 2016 it has seen accomplishment that I believe that and Ulster Vocational schools over many new challenges along with new it is without question the greatest many years should never be forgotten initiatives to help improve the game. achievement ever by any club in a and they can take great pride in the It is however sad to see the interest in single year since the foundation of the legacy they have left behind and the the Ulster Championship decline due Association over 130 years ago. tremendous contribution they have mainly to the fact that our counties made to the furtherance of gaelic participate in the Ring, Rackard and The Ulster Club hurling success was games. Meagher Cups, which they regard not only a first for Slaughtneil but a as their premier championships. first for Derry and to follow this up With over 70 hurling and football Following a review it has been with victories in Camogie and football competitions at secondary level decided to re-schedule the Ulster left it a truly momentous year for the – over 30 of which are completed Championship to a short window in the club. during the first term – this is one of calendar between completion of the the growth sectors of the GAA in National Leagues and commencement There was however a tinge of sadness Ulster and no praise is too high for of the aforementioned national to the triumvirate of victories with the Jimmy Smyth, Seamus Woods and competitions. death of club stalwart Thomas Cassidy their hard working team. Indeed so in the week of the hurling and Camogie great has the workload and volume of The Ulster Senior Hurling finals (which were played as a double fixtures become that Ulster GAA have Championship may not have the same bill in Armagh). Thomas devoted recruited Niall Muldoon to our Games appeal as it had in the 1990’s but is his life to Slaughtneil and to hurling Administration team to work alongside still the top hurling competition in in particular and it was clear from Stephen Donnelly and much of the the province and every effort must be the off that Loughgiel, even with all schools portfolio will fall on his desk. made to preserve it and give it a status their experience of winning provincial worthy of its name. titles, were going to have to produce While the high profile competitions something special to deny Slaughtneil. such as the MacRory Cup, This is however only a start as I believe In the end the intensity of the Derry Mageean Cup and Rannafast Cup that hurling at inter-county level in men’s hurling won through and it was understandably receive most of the the province is in need of dramatic an emotional Chrissy McKaigue who profile, the contribution of lower intervention. Antrim have lost their devoted the club’s inaugural win to his division schools must be applauded. McCarthy Cup status and in 2017 will late mentor. are a relatively new once again find themselves playing in addition to some schools and this is an the Christy Ring Cup. The spirit of the hurlers was also area where potential for further growth evident with the camogs earlier in exists as we endeavour to introduce Annually the Ulster Minor and U-21

46 AN CHOMHDHÁIL BHLIANTÚÍL 2017 #WeAreUlsterGAA

Hurling champions compete in the All- at U-17 level but also challenging as Derry and An Dún competed this Ireland series at quarter-final and semi- the time of year for playing the Group year. Other county squads were set final stages respectively and annually games did not suit all our counties. up at different age levels in an attempt they suffer a heavy defeat. Granted, This resulted in the northern counties to reintroduce or develop hurling in Antrim did overcome Wexford in the opting to play in March rather than schools where the game has struggled 2013 U-21 semi-final with a fine display May. This had an impact on the Ulster in recent times. of hurling – but it proved to be a false Minor Hurling league, which, despite dawn and they lost by 22 points to a demand from our counties to play With the increase in the number of Clare in the All-Ireland final. after the Celtic Challenge, proved to teams that are now playing in the be difficult to complete the games national Féile each year the provincial I ask the question what is the point of programme. Other challenges for event is now much smaller than before. the Ulster Minor and U-21 champions improving this competition include Following discussion at the Ulster continuing to compete outside of the the matching of ability levels of teams Hurling Development Committee, it province at a level which is beyond throughout the games programme to was decided to invite the two weakest them? ensure competitive competition. teams from each county to enter The Táin Hurling league continued the Provincial Féile event which was Antrim are the undoubted powerhouse with four divisions of competition but held at Owenbeg on Saturday 18th of the game in the province having it proved difficult to get all fixtures June, while two new club league won the last 15 Ulster Senior titles, 15 played while the Ulster counties competitions at U-16 and Minor levels of the last 16 minor titles and 2007 continued to be represented in with ten teams participating in each was the last year in which they failed Academy Squad competitions at competition. to capture the U-21 title on the field of U-14, U-15 and U-16 levels. The top play. U-16 Academy Squads were once Ulster GAA staff work earnestly in again selected to attend the Players’ the development of hurling and have There is a compelling case for change Academy at Jordanstown in July and delivered many games development and options need to be explored as then competed in their annual fixtures opportunities across all age groups a matter of urgency. I pose a few against Connacht opposition at the and also coach education sessions in a questions. Might Antrim also compete Connacht Provincial Centre. vast range of developmental topics. A in the round robin section of the Seven counties held a poc fada event hurling development conference was Leinster Senior Hurling Championship with Fermanagh amalgamating with held in February, while a clubs hurling in an effort to get more competitive Cavan for their event. Tyrone hosted seminar was held on 26th October. games and improve standards? the Ulster Final at the Pigeon Top and Almost 50 people attended the event Might participation in Leinster also Down’s Karol Keating won his first and feedback has been collated and be extended to the Minor and U-21 Ulster Senior title and Dominic McEnhill developed into an action plan for the Championships or should the Ulster from Antrim won the U-16 title. development of hurling over the next Minor and U-21 champions compete at four years, which will be driven by ‘B’ level on the All-Ireland stage? The Once again there has been our Hurling Chairman, Oliver Galligan time for the debate is now. development of the Schools and the Ulster Hurling Development programme to bring amalgamated Committee. The new Celtic Challenge proved to squads into the Mageean Cup be beneficial in providing more games competition. Squads from ,

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 47 #WeAreUlsterGAA

ULSTER GAA STRATEGIC PLAN out how the work of the GAA in and we are forever grateful to them. In November Ulster GAA published its Ulster delivers across many of the 14 Comhairle Uladh staff collectively fourth strategic plan which is entitled outcomes and 42 indicators which ensure that we are addressing the ‘Leading, Supporting and Enriching they have identified as the key issues issues and challenges that are placed Communities.’ for the Executive during this Assembly before us, while at the same time mandate and we look forward to offering their services in support The plan identifies nine key goals working in partnership with the of counties, clubs, members and across strategic themes such as government as we make a lasting and volunteers throughout Ulster. volunteering, integration, governance, meaningful contribution to community excellence, leadership, respect and life across the north. In many respects Micheal Ó hOsain has completed his inclusivity which have been earmarked the same mission identified in the first term as Uachtarán Comhairle as priority areas for Ulster GAA draft Programme for Government is Uladh. I personally thank him for the over the next four years. There is a mirrored by the overarching desire tremendous support he has given to particular emphasis on the need to in our Strategic Plan – to generate me during my first weeks in office and, protect and support clubs during these community confidence and improve more generally, Michael has served challenging times when the role of the overall health and wellbeing of our the Council diligently over the past the volunteer is more vital than ever people. year and is a respected member of and it is apt that the protection and numerous committees including Coiste growth of the volunteer base has been Ulster GAA has also built relationships Bainisti Naisunta and Ard Comhairle. identified as a priority. with local authorities in Cavan, A strong supporter of hurling, he and Monaghan and with my gives generously of his time and I wish to thank the many people who Council colleagues I intend to explore if his diary permits he will without played a part in formulating the plan with them on how the measures hesitation represent the Council at which has the ultimate aim of creating outlined in the ‘Programme for a functions across Ulster and beyond a better GAA for all in Ulster and which Partnership Government’ can be as he works tirelessly to promote our charts a pathway for enriching the mutually beneficial for all. affairs. He is a tremendous leader of lives for the entire ‘GAA family’ and a well respected and outward looking wider community. In particular can I PROVINCIAL COUNCIL organisation. thank the officers of Comhairle Uladh In my short period in post I have for their role in bringing the strategic witnessed and recognised the Leas Uachtarán Oilibhear Ó Gealagain Plan to fruition and may I pay special dedication, effort and commitment of is a tremendous ambassador for the thanks to Dr Eugene Young for the volunteer officers from across the nine GAA in Ulster and has proved to be a key co-ordination role that he played counties of Ulster who are working very capable deputy to our president throughout the entire process. earnestly for the promotion of Gaelic over the past year. Oliver is a true Games and culture in the province. Be Gael and is totally committed to the Ulster GAA recently responded to it on full council or through serving furtherance of the GAA in the province. the NI Executive draft Programme on sub committees the contribution As Chair of the Hurling Committee he for Government consultation setting of these individuals as immense has worked earnestly to improve the

48 AN CHOMHDHÁIL BHLIANTÚÍL 2017 #WeAreUlsterGAA

TUARASCÁIL AN RÚNAÍ IN MY SHORT PERIOD IN POST I HAVE WITNESSED AND RECOGNISED THE DEDICATION, EFFORT AND COMMITMENT OF VOLUNTEER OFFICERS FROM ACROSS THE NINE COUNTIES OF ULSTER WHO ARE WORKING EARNESTLY FOR THE PROMOTION OF GAELIC GAMES AND CULTURE IN THE PROVINCE.

lot of the ‘Ulster hurler’ and his efforts A number of members today say detailed knowledge of their respective are truly appreciated. farewell to the Council after varying fields and truly appreciate their years of service and I thank them all tremendous contribution to the GAA in Ciarán Mac Lochlainn has been a for their outstanding contribution Ulster. I therefore give a big thank you tremendous asset to the Council to the furtherance of our affairs. to Eugene Young (Director Coaching during his first year as Cisteoir and his Iar Uachtarán Mairtin MacAibhne and Games), Michelle McAleer (Head financial acumen and understanding has served Comhairle Uladh for an of Finance, HR and Business), Diarmaid has been a great benefit to our work. incredible 30 years. Firstly as a Marsden (Head of Community As Chair of the Finance Committee delegate from Monaghan and then Development) and Stephen McGeehan he has steadfastly ensured that as PRO, Treasurer, Vice President, (Project Sponsor, Casement Park) and governance and best practice are President and Past President he their respective teams and indeed at the core of our affairs and I am has made a meaningful and lasting to all the staff in Ulster GAA for their indebted to him for his work in both impression on GAA issues in the dedication and support. Council affairs and in the provision of province and we are grateful for his support for our counties. enthusiasm and commitment. Martin I hope I will be forgiven for making will no doubt continue to play an special reference to my PA Geraldine Since becoming Oifigeach Caidreamh active role in GAA matters and I wish McKavanagh whose commitment Poiblí last January, Micheál Mag him well in his future endeavours. to the GAA in Ulster knows no Eochagáin has earnestly protected bounds. She worked alongside Danny the image of the GAA in Ulster and Pádraig Ó Connachain has expertly during his tenure as Rúnaí and she has been to the fore in ensuring that chaired the Irish and Heritage was fervent in her loyalty, support, our affairs receive the coverage and Committee and has been a valued commitment and dedication to him recognition they merit across media and trusted member of Coiste Bainistí and the Ulster GAA family. Danny’s outlets. Michael deals with the media and plays a key supportive role in full passing was particularly hard on in a courteous and effective manner Council meetings which are conducted Geraldine given the close working and offers wise and solid support to as gaeilge. His love of the GAA and bond they enjoyed but I know she will all Council staff and in particular the the and culture is continue to give the same service to Information Technology, Marketing and second to none and his valued input me and the GAA in the province and Public Relations team. I think him for will be missed and I thank him for his we are all the richer for having her as a his efforts in promoting our affairs. wonderful contribution to Comhairle key member of the Council staff. Uladh. I thank also the Chairs’, Secretaries’ CASEMENT PARK and members of all our sub- I also recognise the outstanding The Ulster Council GAA and Project committees for their ongoing efforts contribution of Michael Harvey, Harry Board led by Chairman and Project and trust that I will be forgiven for Traynor, Fr Rory Coyle and Ryan Senior Responsible Owner (SRO) making particular reference to the Feeney who leave the Ulster Council Tomas O Dalaigh and Board members work of Coiste Éisteachta which is following Convention and thank them have overseen significant progress chaired by Eamonn Mac Mathúna, with for the service they have given at during 2016. The project team has Seán Mac Cionna as Rúnaí . Every provincial level. They have represented brought the development from a organisation needs rules and the their counties with distinction and I project re-start to the brink of a fresh application of discipline throughout it know that they will continue to play an planning application submission is a core plank in the proper conduct active role in our great organisation. coinciding with the timing of this of its affairs. There are times when convention. they are faced with heavy caseloads I would also like recognise and and difficult and contentious cases but appreciate the work of the Senior Following the decision of the High without prejudice, fear or favour they Staff team and thank them for their Court which culminated in the adjudicate to the best of their ability continued dedication to the GAA and withdrawal of planning permission and we thank them for their work in their support and loyalty to me since one of the key tasks for the rest of the this key area of activity. taking up post. I have relied and year was, via the Funding Agreement will continue to rely heavily on their between the Department of Culture,

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 49 #WeAreUlsterGAA

THE APPROACH FROM THE GAA TEAM HAS BEEN A FOCUSSED ON HAVING A GENUINE DESIRE TO LISTEN TO ALL OF THE VIEWS ON THE RE-DEVELOPMENT (POSITIVE AND SOME NEGATIVE) TO ENSURE WE DO ALL WE CAN TO RESPECT THE VIEWS OF THE COMMUNITY AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS.

50 AN CHOMHDHÁIL BHLIANTÚÍL 2017 #WeAreUlsterGAA

TUARASCÁIL AN RÚNAÍ 05

Arts and Leisure (now Department for - Develop and deliver a world class matters relating to the previous project Communities), to secure an continuing provincial sized stadium in Belfast at a time when the new consultation exchequer funding to support for the GAA process was about to begin in earnest, project expenditure for the period to - Enhance the local Community that and offering no new insights which submission of planning permission. the new Casement Park will serve is traditionally the trademark of an This was achieved. - Deliver a facility suitable for hosting investigative programme. The GAA Club, County, Provincial and and the project were represented The GAA has now concluded its pre- National fixtures with integrity and professionalism by application community consultation - Contribute to the economic and Stephen McGeehan in that programme process for the project. After a period social development of Belfast and and the feedback created a wave of in excess of 30 weeks with almost Ulster positivity for the project and the team 5,000 individuals and organisations which subsequently benefitted the contributing to the process we have The work of the delivery team in project. been putting the final touches to enhancing the design for the stadium, our planning submission material its safety compliance, the impact of Significant work and resource has been and ensuring that the views of all the stadia in the local context and of allocated to the GAA’s interactions respondents have been considered. course its associated environmental with the Safety Technical Group and socio-economic contributions (STG) chaired by Danny McSorley The approach from the GAA team has for the long term will be well served during the year. Progress has been been a focussed on having a genuine by the detailed submissions which particularly positive on advancing desire to listen to all of the views on are well advanced and articulately the code compliance aspects of the the re-development (positive and described in the planning application. stadium design and associated safety some negative) to ensure we do all The adjustments to the Stadium design management plans and we recognise we can to respect the views of the have met with a very favourable the work of the secretariat of the community and other stakeholders. reaction from within the GAA and from group provided by Department for Changes have been made to the scale, the wider community. Key changes Communities. height and mass and to the access include increasing roof cover to 100% and egress of the proposed stadium of capacity, converting the south stand Rory Miskelly has been a positive to take account of the various issues from a seated to a covered standing/ influence in his first year as Project which arose from the outcome of the terraced area, some changes to roof Director working closely with the High Court Case and the stakeholder structural design, a reduction to a Board Chair/SRO and linking in with engagement. These changes have capacity just short of 35,000, the the statutory authorities assisting been welcomed by a majority of creation of an internal roadway on to steer the project ahead during people in the local area. the GAA-owned site and more evenly the period with the benefit of his distributed entrances/exits. experience on large capital projects. Recently the Ulster GAA opened a new site office on the The past year proved highly successful Similarly, Professor John Cole and Road opposite Casement Park as part for the messaging around the project Michael McGuckin in their first year as of the ongoing engagement process and specifically around the community independent members of the Project and the reaction from local community engagement process. Stephen Board have played an influential has been hugely positive with a McGeehan led out on this aspect role in various aspects and brought significant majority in the area offering from the project team with excellent a freshness to many of the complex their support to see the project taken professional support from Aiken PR. matters faced by the project. forward. This has enthused the GAA While there much fair and balanced team as they work studiously to bring coverage, not all coverage was of Michael McGuckin, has led out on a the proposals forward. this quality with a BBC Spotlight significant piece of work bringing programme, not in keeping with the forward the relationship with the The Project Board set four key high standards normally associated Casement Social Club, alongside strategic pillars for the delivery team with this production, in particular Antrim Co. Committee, and a working for the project, these are: focussing negatively on obsolete group which has now put in place all

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 51 #WeAreUlsterGAA

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 05 the required lease agreements and Administrator, is worthy of a special her support during a difficult period for heads of terms necessary to ensure mention as she continues to ensure, the project. a smooth transition and business in her typically effective, efficient continuity for the Social Club. This and business-like manner, that all the I welcome Paul Givan, MLA to his role work will bear fruit during 2017 various strands of the administration as Communities Minister and during as matters progress on site and a and governance structures work early engagements he has been temporary facility, registrations, and together. unequivocal about his admiration for license consents are concluded. On the GAA as a sporting organisation behalf of the Ulster GAA I want to I wish to acknowledge the contribution and for his genuine desire to see the thank the Casement Social Club and of our Uachtaran Michael Hasson, who Casement Park project delivered recognise their renewed partnerships represents the Council on the DfC during his mandate. I wish him well in with Antrim GAA in a wider context Sponsor Board with Tomas O’Dalaigh, his tenure as Minister. also. Project SRO and to Stephen McGeehan, again who has been representing I acknowledge the leadership of Ian Colin Donnelly, in his first year as our interests at Programme Board Maye in the Department as Programme Antrim Chairman with other newly level. I wish also to acknowledge the Senior Responsible Owner (SRO) and elected officers and Frankie Quinn as significant contributions of our Project his colleagues Jacqueline Fearon, Secretary have continued to work with Board members, Project Steering Denise Stockman and Andrew Dadley the Council and Project Board in an Group members and to the external and the Programme Team for their enthusiastic and determined fashion. representatives from DfC and CPD support and partnership on the There was positive engagement who contribute at those levels. It project. It would be remiss not to between the Project Board, Antrim and would be remiss not to mention at this mention the specific input of Steven Comhairle Uladh during 2016 to resolve stage John O Reilly who has stepped Trainor who during the year transferred a range of issues which had arisen down from our Project Board in recent to another post within the civil service due to the unforeseen length of the times. As ever John made a valuable and I thank him for his contribution closure of Casement Park. Chairman contribution and we thank him for that. over many years. Tomas O Dalaigh has once again worked diligently during this period. At I acknowledge the immense support I wish to thank our two contracted a time when on the Board and indeed offered at Board level and on all teams who remain fully involved and within the Ulster Council itself there project aspects by Paraic Duffy and integrated in the Design and Build have been significant changes, Tom his team at Croke Park as and when process namely Mott MacDonald on has remained focussed and energetic required. During 2017, as the stadium the Design side and, in particular to bring Casement Park forward and moves through the planning process, to their Belfast Divisional Director he should be commended for his the focus will shift to the operational Bill Dowey. On the contracting determination in that regard. I thank readiness and the support of Alan side the Heron Buckingham (HBJV) also the Casement Park Trustees for Gallagher and others at Croke Park team remain engaged and we thank their ongoing support for the project. level will be both necessary and Managing Director Damian Heron for invaluable. his team’s commitment to the job. I Our Stadium Project Steering Group look forward to 2017 being a year of is led by Stephen McGeehan, the Politically there were significant real progress for the Casement Park Project Sponsor, supported by our changes following the 2016 Assembly redevelopment project. Technical Advisor, Tim Harkin. This elections. Governmental re-structuring group is supported by Oliver Galligan, led to a reduction in departments, with While not directly involved in the day and Michelle McAleer. Paul McGurk most of DCAL’s functions, including to day affairs of the Casement Park and Claire Collender in their new the stadia projects, transferred to project I also wish to acknowledge and roles during 2016 have both provided the newly created Department for thank Liam Nelis for the guidance and support to the communications and Communities. The last DCAL Minister support he provides to the Council in consultation processes during the Carál Ní Chuilín, MLA was a great relation to ground safety on a generic year and I acknowledge their efforts. advocate for the GAA and Casement level. Geraldine McKavanagh, as Stadium Park and we thank her sincerely for all

52 AN CHOMHDHÁIL BHLIANTÚÍL 2017 #WeAreUlsterGAA

TUARASCÁIL AN RÚNAÍ 05

DUNSILLY completed their Access NI, with over I wish to acknowledge the support that The past year saw the opening of the 20,000 through the process to date, Ulster GAA receives from the GAA’s Antrim GAA Centre at Dunsilly and and we remind all of our constituent National Children’s Officer Gearóid O I commend all those who worked units of the requirement to ensure that Maoilmhichil and from the government earnestly to bring this project to all of those who work with children departments and statutory agencies fruition. I thank the staff of the former and young people must be vetted prior north and south and I look forward to Department of Culture, Arts and to commencement of their work in the developing our links further with these Leisure and in particular Minister Carál position applied. key partners in the days and months Ní Chuilín for the provision of much ahead as we strive for excellence in needed funding for the project and National Vetting Bureau Bill terms of Safeguarding in Ulster GAA. to the officers and staff of both the The National Vetting Bureau Bill Ulster Council and the Antrim County commenced on the 29th April 2016, Audit Committee for their efforts in securing and as expected the Association Coiste Banistíochta Uladh in the investment and in bringing forward were one of the first organisations to conjunction with an Coiste Cód Eitice the development. move to the E-Vetting system. This agus Dea commissioned an Audit of has been a welcome move forward all clubs in Ulster in 2015 to ensure CHILD PROTECTION and our experience of this system that they are compliant with any best 2016 has not been without its to date has been very positive, and practice and legal requirements in challenges in this vital area of where all of our communications with terms of Safeguarding. All clubs were operations; however it has also been applicants take place electronically. provided with a list of those vetted a year in which the work we do has The focus to date has been placed on and trained in the GAA Safeguarding progressed to a new level to the retrospective vetting, to ensure that Children and Young People in Sport benefit of all within the Association in all those working with children have workshop, and asked to ensure there Ulster. been vetted as appropriate and we will are no gaps in terms of the lists held by move to re-vetting volunteers in the us and those working with children and Access NI Vetting southern counties in due course on a young people in their club. This was a The introduction of the Online Case county by county basis. very worthwhile task and will now be Management Tracking System and completed on a yearly basis given the Online Applications in 2015 has Safeguarding Event 2016 success of last year’s audit process. been very efficient and a welcome Ulster GAA hosted a historic event on addition to our Access NI Vetting Thursday 27th November 2016 in the Feile 2017 procedures. Our new database has Canal Court Hotel in , where Ulster GAA will again play host to Feile been implemented to phase one stage, a gathering of County Designated Peile na nOg in 2017 and preparations and in 2017 we will move to phase two, Officers and Childrens’ Officers were are already well under way in the permitting club users secure access to present to hear from the officers in host counties of Cavan, Monaghan their clubs information and the ability the PSNI, and An Garda Síochána. and Fermanagh. We have begun to to upload information as required. The event was a huge success, work with our counties to identify providing an opportunity to those host families early in a bid to ensure Single Certificate came into effect as present to hear about the work that they are all through the appropriate anticipated last November and we these two bodies carry out, creating vetting process well in advance of the are grateful to our applicants for their awareness of the need to have fully events. It is vital that all units involved assistance and compliance with the implemented our robust safeguarding comply with legal and best practice new policies that we were required to policies and procedures in all of requirements placed on them as implement to deal with this change. our clubs and constituent units and participants in the Feile Competitions We had expected the update service reinforced the need for us all to work and indeed host families and we to be operational by now, however we together to create and maintain a safe appreciate your assistance in this understand that this has been delayed environment in which our children matter. until at least the spring of 2017. We can participate in Gaelic Games and are encouraged by the number of Activities. volunteers in our Association who have

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 53 #WeAreUlsterGAA

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 WE ACKNOWLEDGE THE VALUABLE ROLE THAT PARENTS HAVE TO PLAY IN THE EFFECTIVE RUNNING OF OUR GAMES AND ACTIVITIES AND IN ENSURING THAT THEIR CHILDREN REACH THEIR MAXIMUM POTENTIAL IN A FUN ENVIRONMENT.

Save our Smiles Campaign Anti Bullying Week in November 2016, growing database which now sits at During the first week of October where our messages were widely over 38,000 participants. 2016, Ulster GAA weighed in behind supported and publicised across the National Parent in Sport Week, all of our Counties and constituent All nine counties in Ulster have where we introduced our Save our units. We encourage all clubs to hosted at least one Childrens Officer Smiles Campaign to promote the adopt a zero tolerance approach to Workshop by the end of 2016, with positive involvement of parents in bullying behaviour, to create a culture further scheduled for 2017. This course the GAA. This is a fantastic initiative where that type of behaviour is has been a valuable addition to our that has been very well received by totally unacceptable and to deal with training resources as it provides our clubs and counties and promoted incidents of bullying in line with our specific training for all club childrens accordingly. We acknowledge the guidelines. officers, who have the ultimate valuable role that Parents have to play responsibility of implementing all in the effective running of our games Training of our Safeguarding policies and and activities and in ensuring that their Our Safeguarding Children and Young procedures. children reach their maximum potential People in Sport workshop remains at in a fun environment. We have found the forefront of our suite of training Bernie Fox, assisted by Kathy Kelly and this to be an excellent initiative that we courses available as a requirement Paul McKillop provide clear leadership will continue to develop and promote. for all those who work with children and guidance in the sensitive but and young people in our Association. crucial area of child protection and we Tackling Bullying The audit process carried out in are truly appreciative and thankful for We continued to promote our Tackling 2015 saw an increase in demand for their efforts. Bullying Programme throughout the these workshops, with 202 courses year, placing focus around the National completed in 2016, adding to our

54 AN CHOMHDHÁIL BHLIANTÚÍL 2017 #WeAreUlsterGAA

TUARASCÁIL AN RÚNAÍ 05

COACHING AND GAMES his team have made to their lives. I schools that have young people with DEVELOPMENT offer Terence my best wishes in his disabilities. The coaches introduce The Coaching and Games Development retirement and commend him for the able bodied classmates to the chairs Section is a core tenet of Ulster GAA in contribution he has made in furthering and they compete with the wheelchair that they service the entire spectrum the ideals of Cumann Luthchleas Gael users in their class. The mobility of the of GAA playing activity, be it through during his time at Ulster GAA. Ryan programme has been enhanced by giving young children their first taste Mellon, with excellent support from the purchase of two vans (supported of gaelic games, to helping develop Ashlene Groogan, has helped drive by Department of Culture, Arts and the skills of those people who are the Programme and I look forward to Leisure) and we thank them for this choosing to play our games, to the working with them moving forward. funding. The programme addressed a innovative use of sports science to key departmental priority of promoting help achieve optimum performance for Unfortunately year on year, and also equality and tackling social exclusion. those players who are competing at in-year, reductions in departmental high performance levels. budget allocations have impacted on I thank Paul Callaghan and Shane the scale of the Programme in recent McCann for their ongoing work with The greatest concentration in times. Several years ago we had over the Inter-Provincial Wheelchair Team quantitative terms through the 30 Key Stage 1 coaches and that figure who were rewarded by winning the Curriculum Key Stage 1 literacy and has now been reduced to 25. Funding league and getting to the final of numeracy programme which has uncertainties, coupled with the short- the championship and I trust that been in place since the restoration of term nature of contracts, has resulted this really worthwhile initiative will devolution in 2007. in higher levels of staff turnover from continue to grow in popularity in the this programme than elsewhere in years ahead. Forby introducing young children in Ulster GAA but it also must be borne the 4-8 age spectrum to gaelic games in mind that this Programme has an In a time when the consequences the Key Stage 1 Programme teaches additional aim of providing a stepping of head injuries in contact sport are important life concepts such as co- stone to those individuals who wish to becoming increasingly apparent and, ordination, focus and balance. The achieve career progression within the rightly, are receiving increased media overall contribution of the Key Stage 1 education sector, and in this respect it attention, the GAA’s Concussion coaches cannot be underestimated and has proved to be quite successful. Awareness programme is becoming they deserve the highest of plaudits more and more relevant and in the for their ongoing work in not only At the time of writing Ulster GAA is past year some 120 workshops have promoting gaelic games in our schools awaiting confirmation on funding levels been delivered to clubs. While but in offering early stage life skills for the programme for the remainder the education process needs to be support to our children. of this Assembly mandate. Since its ongoing, there is a clear onus on inception the programme has more clubs, schools and counties to ensure The Programme engages some 300 than paid its worth and it is vital that that their coaching staff and team schools, 15,000 children and 600 it continues to have the support of mentors are familiar with the signs teachers and provides a level of self- government given the important of concussion and that they are fully confidence to all those who engage contribution it makes not only to cognisant with the return to play and highlights the importance of gaelic games but to key government protocol. It is vital that they are exercise as part of an overall healthy indicators such as improving child aware of the horrific repercussions of lifestyle. development, improving educational ‘second impact syndrome’ and it must outcomes and improving health and be instilled in mentors and officials The Programme Co-Ordinator wellbeing. across the board that player safety and Terence McWilliams retired in July wellbeing outweighs the result of any 2016 after 10 years of working with The GAA for All Programme is all game. Ulster GAA and there are many encompassing and has taken on a new young people across the north that dimension in 2015-2016 through the Ulster GAA continues to offer support has very good reason to be thankful wheelchair hurling programme within to Camogie, Ladies Football and of the contribution that Terence and schools. This programme targeted Handball and there is evidence of

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 55 #WeAreUlsterGAA

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 IT IS IMPORTANT THAT PEOPLE OF ALL AGES CAN BE AT ACCOMMODATED AT THE LEVEL BEST SUITED TO THEM AND FOR MANY THIS WILL BE IN A NON-COMPETITIVE OR RECREATIONAL ARENA...

increasing support for one wall schools helping to establish Academies for The Ulster GAA Referees Academy handball, with over seven schools in the further education students. Ulster is delivered in partnership with the Cavan and Monaghan and 14 teams GAA now supports the provision of Referees Committee and competing in the October tournament. coaches at Queen’s University, Ulster has worked closely with them in Gary Mallon offers ongoing support to University and St. Mary’s Teacher organising a full medical examination Ladies Football in the organisation of Training College. In many respects and this health check is an important their tournaments, while the Regional third level competition does not tool in the support armoury for Hurling Officers, assisted by Kevin command the same level of support officials, given the increasing levels of Kelly, have delivered a comprehensive or engender the same level of interest fitness of our players and the stresses indoor hurling programme at underage as other academic level competitions and pressures that referees face in levels from Under six and upwards. but they are an important facet of what can often be a difficult and the association and the GAA college pressurised environment. It is important that people of all ages community plays an important role can be at accommodated at the level in supporting young students, most High Performance Support and the best suited to them and for many of whom are away from home for the Sports Institute remains a key partner this will be in a non-competitive first time. The increasing number of in the promotion and development or recreational arena, but to be all students attending Higher Education of the overall high performance inclusive and to cater for as wide a presents a challenge for Gaelic games environment. There are three spectrum as possible it is important and particularly at a time when third significant strands namely player that we cater for all abilities as far level college budgets are being lifestyle, performance analysis and elite as is practically possible. Therefore dramatically reduced and clubs and handball player development. the ‘Inclusion Programme’ aimed at their administrators are challenged to The Sports Institute have been to the targeting social need is an encouraging resource, finance and field multiple forefront in assisting Kevin McGuigan development and again met a key teams. Our funding to the development in the development of competent Executive priority focus. Ulster GAA’s officers in this sector is therefore Performance Analysts within the Active Clubs Co-ordinators Shane designed to assist in this process and club environment and in the overall McCann and Paul Callaghan have been I know is greatly appreciated by the development of sports science recruiting new players from schools respective institutions. initiatives. While senior county teams and linking them into clubs. are encouraged to engage with Kevin The Ulster U-17 Player Academy is in this developing area not all counties In particular they have been targeting supported by Roger Keenan, Ryan choose to avail this service, with some, females and people with disability. The Mellon, and Kevin Kelly as is their right, choosing to provide programme supported by Sport NI, has and is an important component in the the service internally. also been engaging people who have overall progression of the player who become inactive and motivating them has the potential to compete at the Just last month Ulster GAA however to get involved in coaching or other highest levels within the Association. A received disappointing news from health related activity in the clubs. Gael support mechanism is also in place for Sport NI, the parent body of the Active has been driven to encourage talented young players with a dozen Sports Institute, that the provision of those that are inactive to become volunteers actively working with them funding for a Sports Science post was active. Gary Mallon and Tony Scullion and helping them address issues which not being included in their provisional have provided support within the could potentially impact on them allocations for the next four years Youth Justice System delivering Gaelic reaching optimum performance. The under the Sporting Clubs Programme, Games to young offenders. Having Sports Institute are supporting the while support is also being withdrawn had previous experience of working in programme, providing training and from elite handballers Aisling Reilly the justice sector I fully appreciate the development for the officers through and Charlie Shanks on the basis that value of such interventions. a series of workshops. Ryan Mellon the GAA at national level does not drives this programme with additional specifically support handballers who The Further and Higher Education support coming through the National compete on the international stage. sector is supported by Gary Mallon Player Welfare Officer. Ulster GAA are in discussions with with Ulster GAA at the centre of SportNI on these matters.

56 AN CHOMHDHÁIL BHLIANTÚÍL 2017 #WeAreUlsterGAA

The 13th O’Neills Coaching and Games CLUB AND COMMUNITY The Club Planning Programme Development Conference was held in DEVELOPMENT continues to be a key process in Cavan and was a huge success with Club Maith continues to be the enabling clubs to better prepare some 400 coaches attending. The recognised brand for club excellence themselves for the future. This theme of the conference was ‘Club among GAA clubs in Ulster. Seven programme is rolled-out through and Player Pathway’ and the delegates clubs have been accredited in 2016, Ulster GAA in conjunction with County were not disappointed and they six of which received Gold awards, Development Officers. A bank of Club participated in a range of focussed with one attaining the Platinum Planners has been established in each sessions and heard from keynote Award. Training was made available County, who are on-hand to assist speakers Eddie Brennan and Jack in May for all current Club Maith with clubs wishing to engage with the O’Connor. facilitators and those newly recruited programme, A Club Development Plan to the programme. These voluntary is a vital document in any club and as I acknowledge the outstanding work facilitators remain the back-bone such the Club Planning Programme being undertaken by our Coaching and of the assessment stage of the will continue to be an important area Games Development Committee. They programme, and are commended for of work in 2017. By 2020 it is our do a remarkable amount of work on their commitment to the role. intention to have a club development our behalf and the GAA in Ulster has plan in place in every club, in line with great reason to be grateful for their The Club Maith website is a useful club planning programme guidelines. efforts. In particular I thank Chairman online resource to clubs compiling P.J. McGowan and Secretary Danny their Club Maith Portfolios, and indeed Club Officer Training Programme was McLernon for their efforts and for the to any club with a club development rolled out for its seventh consecutive commitment and leadership they have query. Training and courses developed year in 2016 to help build the capacity given to such a key area of work. by the Community Department are of club volunteers providing club Dr Eugene Young continues to lead by placed on the site to keep club officials officers with essential information, example and he is owed a huge debt of abreast of new initiatives. Since its opportunity for an exploration of key gratitude for his unstinting work across inception in 2007 fifty-eight clubs have issues and a forum for discussion. the entire remit of coaching and games now been accredited with the Club development and I thank also the Maith Status and it is a target of our The programme in 2016 formed the entire staff in our Games Development recently launched strategy that each initial stages of the newly created team for their ongoing contribution club across the Province should be Volunteer Development Pathway:- to the furtherance of Gaelic Games in accredited by 2020. Ulster.

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 57 #WeAreUlsterGAA

Entry Level, Club Officer Induction An additional element to our volunteer Through this programme a great Award: 93 volunteers from across all training in 2016 was the introduction of amount of joint work has been nine counties attended this training the Elevate Level 2 Award. Nine Clubs undertaken to promote volunteerism, on Saturday 9th January in Holy were selected to participate in training build capacity and enhance community Trinity College, Cookstown. This across four weekends in February relations. Club members from both event provided role specific training and March. This programme offered codes have come together to build for club officers new to their role. clubs and individuals the opportunity knowledge across a number of related Seven workshops were held as part of to develop knowledge and capacity themes. The diversity of knowledge this session: Chairperson, Secretary, across eight key areas; Leadership, across the three organisations will Treasurer, PRO, Development Officer, Management, Club Planning, undoubtedly bear fruit for each as the Cultural Officer, and Children’s Officer. Marketing, Financial Management, information is put into practice at Club Fundraising, Capital Projects and level. The Level 1 Club Officer Development Partnerships. Programme was held on a regional A key event of the past year was the basis in four different venues in Experienced volunteers from across Joint Volunteering Forum entitled January; 327 volunteers attended the the province led as tutors for this ‘Strength in numbers; building strong training which was delivered in Newry, programme, sharing their experiences teams off the field’. This took place Magherafelt, Clones and Ballybofey. in relevant areas of work. It is hoped at the end of August and showcased that this additional programme some of the excellent work being The training provided club officers with will build stronger volunteers and done at club level, providing advice all essential information for the year ultimately stronger clubs within the and support on recruiting, involving, ahead. In 2016, Ulster GAA identified 4 Province. rewarding and retaining volunteers. Key Areas of work to deliver on based Various aspects of volunteering were on feedback provided in previous years Our working partnership alongside detailed by experts across the three and issues that may have arisen in Irish Football Association and Ulster Governing Bodies, while case studies 2015. Workshops focused on the areas Rugby has continued in 2016 through were presented by Randalstown of Critical Response, Raising funds the Department for Communities RFC, Ballinamallard FC and Killeavy within your Club Community, Digital funded programme ‘Sport: A home for St. Moninna’s GAC on how they Communications, and Online Safety. lifelong Volunteering’ have grown strong and sustainable

58 AN CHOMHDHÁIL BHLIANTÚÍL 2017 #WeAreUlsterGAA

TUARASCÁIL AN RÚNAÍ 05 volunteer bases. The event concluded Union Programme Body (SEUPB) for narrowly missed-out on a semi-final with a very interactive panel discussion Peace IV funding under the theme spot, coming-up against club teams with attendees asking a raft of of “Building Positive Relations”. This who have had years of experience questions which will assist them in application if successful will enhance playing together. While in London the their roles within their clubs. The and increase cross community and young men also had a chance to tour lasting impression of the event was of cross border activities throughout London City, spent a day in Thorpe the hugely enthusiastic club volunteers Ulster using sport as a vehicle to build Park, and did some shopping. The who are already giving so generously positive relations. real value of such an experience was of their time in helping their clubs and profoundly seen on the young men, communities. The annual Ulster GAA Cúchulainn as they forged meaningful and lasting Cup took place at the Meadowbank friendships. Praise must go to the Ulster GAA continues to reach out Sports Arena on Wednesday 16th school-teachers who accompanied across community divides and as March 2016. Magherafelt Cúchulainns, their pupils, and staff from Ulster outlined in our new strategy we will Banbridge Cúchulainns, and Ballymena GAA who made it possible for the endeavour to “Promote sport for social Cúchulainns were the participating young men to become involved in the good”. Our relationship with Ulster teams. experience. Rugby and the Irish FA continues to develop and strengthen, and our Joint Schools were given “GAA Taster Through links with the PSNI, Strategic Framework “Sport Uniting Sessions” in the basic skills of Gaelic Ulster GAA have been invited to Communities” has been used as a Football and Hurling, with over give educational talks about our template to showcase the positive 150 pupils getting an opportunity Association to PSNI cadets. Typically impact that sport can have in people’s to sample what the GAA has to the talks take place every 4-6 weeks lives. offer. “Getting to Know the GAA” and afford Ulster GAA the opportunity presentations were delivered to to educate and inform cadets about Ulster GAA has delivered Game over 120 pupils promoting greater the GAA. The Club and Community of Three Halves (GO3H) events as understanding and respect for other Development Department have also and when required, and remain as cultures; a key aim of the Cúchulainn delivered information presentations partners in the Sport for Change Cup programme. Magherafelt on the GAA to diverse groups such Working Group, who are responsible Cúchulainns made-up of Rainey as Young Farmers, Stranmillis College for the delivery of GO3H events. Endowed, St Mary’s Grammar, and Health and Physical Activity students The Belfast Interface Games are the St Pius X College were crowned and the US Ambassador to Ireland main programme in this regard, held champions and were chosen to travel Kevin F. O’Malley and the US Consul over a fortnight in July across four to London to compete in the All British General Daniel J. Lawton. three-day camps in Belfast. Over 200 Championships in July. The team young people from all backgrounds trained in earnest for the competition, More and more external agencies participated in the camps, many and visited London in July while also are now recognising Sport as a playing Gaelic games for the first time. visiting Croke Park in order to learn hugely beneficial way of getting key The fortnight culminated in a Flagship more about our Association. messages to young people and the event at Queens PEC on 29th July. wider population. The multisport In London, competing at the U16 partnership has been key in all of Ulster GAA coaching staff delivered level, the Magherafelt Cúchulainns this. The Probation Board (PBNI), the coaching at other GO3H events faced teams from Gloucestershire, Prison Service (NIPS), Department of through-out the year, an important Herefordshire, , London, Foreign Affairs, Local Government, aspect of the cross-community work Warwickshire and . Despite PSNI, Nexus, Public Health Agency and being undertaken by Ulster GAA. being a team made-up of players who numerous Government Departments had little experience playing Gaelic have all made links with Ulster GAA to The multi-sport partnership of Ulster games, the Magherafelt Cúchulainns explore potential partnerships. GAA, Ulster Rugby and IFA are represented themselves with currently in the process of submitting distinction showing some incredible an application to the Special European skills, passion, and team-work. They

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 59 #WeAreUlsterGAA

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 THERE ARE FEW AMONGST US THAT HAVE NOT BEEN AFFECTED IN SOME WAY BY ROAD DEATHS OVER THE YEARS BUT DESPITE THE IMPROVEMENTS IN ROAD AND CAR SAFETY IT IS STILL A MAJOR ISSUE FOR SOCIETY.

HEALTH AND WELLBEING the Ulster GAA website and the four Rory Gallagher, Chair of the National Health and Wellbeing continues to winning schools were presented with HWC Ciarán McLaughlin, and Ulster be an increasingly important role ‘Live To Play’ playing kits. President Michael Hasson were on- within our GAA units. Ulster GAA is hand with the Anglo Celt Cup to lend represented on the National Health Ulster GAA’s ‘Live To Play’ Programme their support to the campaign. and Wellbeing Committee through and Primary Schools Initiative was the Community Health & Wellbeing acknowledged nationally by receiving The ‘Drink, Drugs, and Sausage-rolls’ Manager. County Health & Wellbeing awards at the CRASH NI Road Safety campaign is for third-level students Committees (HWC) Action Plans for Awards in November, and the Irish advising them about health and 2015/2016 delivery have been largely Road Safety Awards in December. I lifestyle issues that are particularly completed. With the many competing commend the Club and Community relevant to students, possibly living priorities of County Committees it can Development team for their ongoing away from home for the first time. at times be a struggle to have this efforts in this significant area of work The campaign was rolled-out at item high on the agenda of County and it is a proud testament to your Freshers Fayres in UU Coleraine, UU Committees, given their volume of efforts that this area of activity has Jordanstown, UU Magee, Queens, work but there can be no doubting received such public recognition. I St Marys College, and Belfast the spirit and endeavour of the HWC’s particularly wish to acknowledge Metropolitan College. in our counties. As with most things the efforts of Fionntan O’Dowd in there are some counties that are for the role he played in preparing Ulster GAA staff availed of refresher further along their journey than others the nominations for both of these training in the summer, enabling them and Ulster GAA continues to support prestigious awards. to deliver Heartstart training as and all nine County HWCs, particularly when required. All Ulster Ladies Gaelic those facing the greatest obstacles. There are few amongst us that have Football referees availed of the training The Ulster HWC meets quarterly not been affected in some way by road as part of their referee development. and is chaired by Cathal Hand, with deaths over the years but despite the Trained tutors in St Mary’s, Rasharkin representation for each of the counties. improvements in road and car safety also delivered training over a number it is still a major issue for society. 255 of weeks to club and community Phase II of the Healthy Club people lost their lives on Irish roads members Programme began in November in 2016, 88 of them on Ulster roads. 2016, and is going from strength- We all have a role to play in helping The Department of Justice Minister to-strength. In total 19 clubs across to improve road safety and through Claire Sugden has approached Ulster Ulster are involved, and each county our ‘Live to play’ campaign Ulster GAA, the IFA and Ulster Rugby to represented. Through this programme GAA will continue to play its part in become involved in a Domestic clubs undertake a range of health educating young people on this issue Violence campaign in autumn 2016. and wellbeing activities, from smoke- of fundamental importance. The campaign is particularly focused free club grounds, couch to 5k on raising awareness and confidence programmes, social initiative activities, Ulster GAA’s Blood Sub campaign was within victims of domestic abuse to to name a few. promoted at the Ulster Senior Football seek help. The campaign is progressing Championship Football Final in Clones in partnership with Ulster Ladies Gaelic The Primary School Road Safety on Sunday 17th July. The Northern Football and Ulster Camogie. Programme – the ‘Live To Play’ Oscars Ireland Blood Transfusion Service, and was held in the spring 2016. The the Irish Blood Transfusion Service Ulster GAA are in the process of programme aimed to raise awareness provided details of local upcoming developing a “One Punch Can of road safety issues with primary blood donation clinics which people Kill” campaign aimed mainly at school children. Schools were asked could avail of. Patrons were directed young males, advising them about to develop a Demonstration of to Ulster GAA’s Blood Sub campaign responsible behaviour both on Learning short film evidencing how website page, where clubs are and off the pitch in relation to the primary schools have continued to encouraged to host a blood donation consequences of one punch. This use the excellent Ulster GAA Live To clinic of their own. Tyrone Manager programme has been developed in Play Kidszone which is available from , Donegal Manager conjunction with Coaching & Games

60 AN CHOMHDHÁIL BHLIANTÚÍL 2017 #WeAreUlsterGAA

Department to include important the child protection and health and I thank , Aileen messages around concussion, and wellbeing units within Ulster GAA, Cummins, Maura McMenamin, Sharon on-field behaviour. The programme will where necessary. Haughey-Grimley , Fionntan O’Dowd be available for delivery to interested and laterally Ashelene Groogan for groups in spring 2017. The Club and Community Development their outstanding work across a wide Department delivered a very successful remit of activities. The Health and Wellbeing and Child Club and volunteer Conference, Protection units within Ulster GAA are which was held in Cookstown at the They play a key role in the Comhairle working together to look at the issues end of October with just under 200 Uladh work programme and on many of online safety, sexting, and consent delegates attended on the day and had occasions they are the public face of issues. The online safety aspect informative engagements from our key the organisation. Aileen left Ulster has been delivered in a number of note speakers and Barry GAA at the end of December to take workshops during 2016, and has been McElduff as well as the opportunity up a new post and I wish her well in very well-received. Campaigns around to attend some of the club focussed her future career path and thank her the other areas are being developed, workshops on offer. Delegates were for her eleven years of service to the and due to the sensitive nature of also given a comprehensive update GAA in Ulster. the content this programme will be on the Casement Park development rolled-out with involvement from both project by Stephen McGeehan.

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 61 #WeAreUlsterGAA

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 05

GAEILGE AGUS OIDHREACHTA promote the Irish Language, our victorious in Léiriú and Ballad Group The past year was the pivotal year in activities and our culture”. Ulster GAA respectively. I congratulate them all the so called ‘Decade of Centenaries’ is committed to recruit and appoint on such tremendous success and also with the hundredth anniversary of the an officer to coordinate all aspects of commend those acts which won out at Easter Rising and The Battle of the Irish Language and Culture within the provincial and county levels. Somme recognised through numerous council but also to provide guidance events at home and abroad. The and direction to our counties and I acknowledge the work of Ailis Nic GAA paid a fitting and appropriate clubs. We are currently engaged in an tSaoi and Danny McLernon who tribute to the memory of the Easter discussions with potential funders to made a great contribution to the Rising, 100 years to the day from its assist in this process. It is also worthy promotion of Scór over many years commencement, with an engaging of note that the Irish Government in and to the membership of the Coiste commemoration entitled ‘Laochra’ their ‘Programme for A Partnership Scór Uladh. They provide enthusiastic in Croke Park following the National Government’ published following the leadership and an efficient delivery of Football League final. The production formation of the new government our Ulster competitions and for this recognised the contribution of the highlights the need to implement the we are very grateful. Claire Collender GAA to Irish society and the mature 20 Year Strategy for the Irish Language provides great support to the work of and significant role it has played in in order to increase visibility of the the committee and I know that this is the shaping of modern Ireland. In language in everyday life and to greatly appreciated by its membership. Ulster a short pageant was held at the encourage greater usage of it. Ulster final while Uachtarán Cumann 2017 will be a big year for Scór in Luthchleas Gael Aogán O Fearghail CULTURE AND SCÓR Ulster, and particularly in Antrim, when was among the gathering who The ongoing work by our units the national finals of both Scór na nOg participated in a talk on ‘1916 and the through the cultural development of and Scór Sinsear will be held in Belfast GAA in Ulster.’ our music, song, dance and drama in February and May respectively has contributed to a very successful and I have no doubt that the Ulster The annual Seamus De Faoite Irish sequence of Scór na nÓg and Scór hospitality will once again be to the Language School in Downings, Co. competitions. The importance of fore as we welcome our friends from Donegal was once again a great traditional Irish music, dancing and across Ireland to our ‘second city.’ success and I commend all those song is clearly outlined in the GAA’s involved in the organisation of this Official Guide and it is still a cause for INTEGRATION great annual gathering. Opportunities concern that close on 50 years since In keeping with the aims of the should always be available for it was created that there are many Association, Ulster GAA has a positive members to speak the Irish language clubs who do not embrace Scór and working relationship with our sister in a social setting. With this in participate in it. Given our community organisations in the Ladies Football mind, Comhairle Uladh since 2014, ethos, it is an important element in and Camogie and the Handball and in the absence of a similar national adhering to the aims and ideals of our Associations, under our competition, has organised its own identity and our Association. Uachtaran Michael Hasson and active Irish language quiz for clubs as part Integration Committee is in place and, of Seachtain na Gaeilge and in 2016 Ulster had a successful year on the All- as was the case with the Ulster Club Bredagh (Down) collected the honours. Ireland stage with ten winners in all. Camogie final in 2016 where practical In Scór na nÓg, Rince Foirne was won ladies games are scheduled with high Ulster GAA is committed to promoting by Silverbridge Harps, Gavin Gribben profile football or Hurling games. and supporting the Irish Language (Mayobridge) was victorious in Solo and Culture through our provincial Singing, St. Patrick’s, Cullyhanna I look forward to working with the structures, our County Boards and were victors in Léiriú and St. representatives of each of these our Clubs. Through our strategic Patrick’s, Donaghmore were winners partnership organisations during my planning process there was a in Ballad Group. In Scór Sinsear, tenure as Provincial Secretary and I designated workgroup focussed on Derrytresk were the champions in thank the members of the Committee Irish Language and this is reflected Instrumental Music while Truagh for their ongoing efforts. in our strategy Goal 7 “Develop and Gaels and St. Patrick’s, Saul emerged

62 AN CHOMHDHÁIL BHLIANTÚÍL 2017 #WeAreUlsterGAA

2017 WILL BE A BIG YEAR FOR SCÓR IN ULSTER, AND PARTICULARLY IN ANTRIM, WHEN THE NATIONAL FINALS OF BOTH SCÓR NA NOG AND SCÓR SINSEAR WILL BE HELD IN BELFAST IN FEBRUARY AND MAY RESPECTIVELY ...

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 63 #WeAreUlsterGAA

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 05

ASSOCIATION ISSUES water between the two, there is the The GAA last month announced details The past year has witnessed the risk of diluting our core values with of its Media Rights Agreement from formation of a second Players body repercussions that could be potentially this year until 2022. The televising of with the Club Players Association damaging. championship fixtures is similar to the (CPA) created to provide a voice for previous arrangements with RTE and the club player, particularly in relation Once again the Category II infraction, Sky TV securing rights to live games, to fixtures. The vast majority of more commonly referred to as the with BBC also able to simultaneously players never progress to inter-county ‘black card’, has generated plenty of broadcast Ulster Championship games level and anything that can be done to airwave time and column inches over being televised live by RTE. This better their cause should be welcomed. the past year and there is widespread arrangement does not apply to such We await with interest further detail consensus that it is not working as games being televised live by Sky TV, on the proposed workings of this originally intended. That it is code while games not be being covered live organisation. specific is one area of contention, by either station can be shown on a though the greatest cause of angst deferred basis. The Gaelic Players Association relates to consistency of interpretation. continues to represent the interests While RTE Radio has secured of what they term the ‘elite amateur I don’t think anyone disputes the commentary rights for all athlete’ and in fairness they have never fact that there needs to be a form of championship games, existing pretended to be anything other than sanction for what is deemed ‘cynical arrangements remain in place with the representatives of the inter-county behaviour.’ I believe however the rule local radio stations and this is to be hurler and footballer. Recently they as currently drafted creates confusion welcomed. A major change, and announced details of their latest grant by the use of the word ‘deliberately’ indeed a highly positive one, is that scheme which they negotiated with in relation to the three ‘black card’ the GAA has now retained clipping the Irish Government. It provides a playing offences and this is making life rights for its own games and can use fair recompense to players who make even more difficult for match officials. them across all its platforms as part many personal sacrifices to play at The rule equates ‘cynical’ fouling and of its overall digital content strategy. the top level of their game and this ‘deliberate’ fouling as if they are one It is wholly proper that GAA should scheme is an important recognition and the same, but they are not. All have immediate access to footage by the state of the part they play in cynical fouls are deliberate but all from its own games for showing on its improving the lives of so many people deliberate fouls are not cynical. own platforms as we want to create a across the island. At this juncture it is situation where GAA platforms are the important to give due recognition to Personally I believe that there needs default for GAA fans across the globe the GAA personnel who participated to be a change of wording in the rule wanting to catch highlights of the in the detailed negotiations which led and I don’t believe that the debarment day’s games. I strongly welcome this to the finalising of these arrangements of the remainder of the game is an new development. and for the very thorough manner in appropriate penalty for ‘cynical’ which they carried out their remit. behaviour as, in many instances, it Ireland’s bid to host the Rugby World leads to no meaningful sanction for Cup in 2023 has met great enthusiasm However it must always be the ‘team,’ given that a replacement across the sporting fraternity and none remembered that the greatest strength can come on during the next break better than the GAA who have agreed of the Association is its amateur ethos in play. I contend that a yellow card to host many of their fixtures at some – in many respects it is the bind that plus a 13 metre free in front of the goal of their major stadia in the event of permeates throughout its entire fabric (unless the offence is committed in the bid being successful. Presently and keeps it intact. It is important the square when a penalty would be a long list of 12 potential venues to therefore that there is no blurring of awarded), irrespective of where on host games has been agreed by the lines between ‘amateurism’ and ‘semi- the field that the offence occurs, is a bid team, with eight of the venues professionalism’ or between what more appropriate penalty following a being GAA stadia. Within Ulster both payments are classified as legitimate ‘cynical’ foul as it will almost certainly Casement Park and Celtic Park have ‘allowances’ and those which are result in the concession of a score. been included. not. If we don’t maintain clear blue

64 AN CHOMHDHÁIL BHLIANTÚÍL 2017 #WeAreUlsterGAA

TUARASCÁIL AN RÚNAÍ 05

Clearly without the GAA support Daly, Peter McKenna, Fergal McGill, The Ulster GAA website contains a in providing venues for the bid, the Patrick Doherty, Kathy Slattery, Alan wealth of information from right across staging of the event wholly in Ireland Milton, Noel Quinn and the staff of the Association in Ulster and our user would not be possible and the new the Ard Stuirthoir’s office and I thank statistics for the year reinforces the Casement Park, which would likely them and all the central staff for their need for a strong presence on this host matches up to and including the assistance and co-operation across platform. Up to the end of December, quarter-final stage of the competition, their particular sphere of operation. we have had almost 800k page views, is particularly crucial to the bid. or an average of 65k views per month. Indeed what a tribute it would be The co-operation between Comhairle During the key summer Championship to the Ulster Council and especially Uladh and our counties and clubs period, we increased our pages views our esteemed Iar Rúnaí and leader continues to be highly positive across by 24% versus last year. Seventy per Danny Murphy if the GAA’s beacon of the large remit of GAA activities cent of our total web traffic now friendship and shared future could be and I acknowledge the tremendous access the site via their smart phones globally recognised on such a scale commitment of our club and county or tablets. in 2023. I wish the Irish bid team officers in delivering the key elements every success and hope and trust of the Association’s work throughout During the year, Cavan adopted the that November 2017 will bring great the province. In particular I thank Club & County website network to tidings of great joy to them when the the County Chairmen, Secretaries, join Tyrone, Fermanagh, Donegal, host nation is selected. Ireland faces Treasurers and other officers who Monaghan, Armagh as well as Ulster competition from France and South tirelessly give of their time in GAA and a number of clubs. The Africa for the right to stage the event. promoting the ideals of Cumann project, managed by Lairdesign, Luthchleas Gael. On a personal level I provides an excellent means to issue The Association is privileged to have commend the County Secretaries, with a consistent, targeted message across a man of such vision and impeccable whom I have the majority of dealings, the network. The website is built using credentials as its Ard Stuirthoir Páraic and I look forward to working with you a Wordpress template and allows O Dufaigh and even in the short time moving forward. county to showcase their own branding since taking up post he has been a around their key county games. INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY source of tremendous support and AND MARKETING comfort to me. He provides clear Our Buy Early and Save Championship Our social media channels have again and effective leadership for our marketing campaign was again very proved to be our primary means organisation and I look forward to successful in 2016. The vast majority for communicating our messages working with him in the years to of our sales now come from advance about our brand, our games and our come. We have another Ulster man purchases - a significant change to initiatives. Our two main communities at the head of the Association in GAA the spectator culture in Ulster in the have seen strong growth, with our President Aogán O Fearghail and last four years. Eighty-four per cent Twitter followers rising by 27% to over his commitment and leadership is of total sales were completed before 57k and our Facebook fans rising by well recognised and has been rightly arriving at the ground – an increase 19% to 33k. We achieved around 16m praised. I have known Aogán for many of 14% on 2015. This growth can be impressions via these channels in the years and I value his wise counsel and attributed to improved understanding year to the end of December. New I thank him for his ongoing efforts in of the Buy Early & Save campaign platforms were also launched during the furtherance of the aims and ethos from increased communications of the year to keep Ulster GAA relevant of the GAA throughout Ireland and online ticket availability, sizeable cost to different audiences, with Periscope beyond. savings, and targeted county specific and Snapchat used to deliver real- marketing. time communications from games There is a healthy working relationship and events. The levels of communities between Ulster GAA and Ard Despite living in an increasingly digital that we now possess give us a very Comhairle and I thank the Croke Park focussed time, we acknowledge that cost effective means of issuing our staff for their ongoing support, advice there remains a market that consumes key messages and presents us with and guidance. Most of my interactions their GAA and other information in a valuable marketing and commercial to date have been with Tom Ryan, Pat non-digital way. opportunities going forward.

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 65 #WeAreUlsterGAA

Traditional print advertising was still a Donnelly Group, Glenavon House reporting on the events and on core element of our marketing strategy Hotel, Lairdesign, Subway, Tughan’s, occasions and recording for posterity in 2016 via and North BBC, UTV, , The Irish News, our great occasions and events. They West News Group. 3fivetwo Group and The GAA Store. give us a great service and their efforts We are also delighted to welcome on are appreciated. My thanks go out to To assist the media in providing board new corporate partners for 2017 our Public Relations Officer Michael relevant content on our games, we – Translink and Irwin’s. In particular, Geoghegan who has developed an facilitated easier access to our players I would like to thank the team at the excellent working relationship with the and managers throughout the year, Bank of Ireland for their sponsorship media during his first year in post. by way of media launches and press of the Bank of Ireland Dr McKenna calls around key competitions. We Cup as we enter the third year of A re-structuring of Ulster GAA also met with key media groups to our current three-year corporate communications has seen the creation listen and gain their feedback. We partner agreement. I would encourage of two new posts and in since taking will endeavour to improve provision members to support all our sponsors up employment in the spring both Paul for media at our games and will look and partners throughout the year. McGurk and Claire Collander have had at means to improve our match day a positive and meaningful impact on communications protocol in 2017 and MEDIA our public relations activities. They beyond. The media landscape has changed have assisted me in many ways and dramatically in recent times with the always represents the Association The IT, Marketing & PR committee, advent of digital media and so quickly in the very best traditions of the that includes all county PROs, is is the environment changing that most Ulster Council. I thank also Stephen dynamic and focussed to keep pace people now consume news online McGeehan, Stephen Donnelly and with the ever changing environment rather than via traditional methods. Sharon Haughey–Grimley for their that is the norm in the Marketing and Broadcasters and newspapers also work in dealing with the media when Communications field. Their excellent have digital platforms, though in appropriate and for ensuring that the work is under the leadership of today’s era of social media anyone voice of Ulster GAA is heard when Michael Geoghegan and we recognise with a compatible device can make required. his numerous contributions since his public comment on our affairs. election last year. Traditional media however continue COMHBHRÓN to play an important role in their Once again the past year has brought Our commercial and sponsorship coverage of GAA affairs and for about the death of many great GAA revenues increased for the fifth the greater part we enjoy a healthy stalwarts and I offer my condolences consecutive year in 2016, which relationship with both newspaper and and those of the GAA in Ulster to reflects the recognition that Ulster broadcast journalists. Where however all those who lost loved ones during GAA can provide excellent marketing we find we have reason to take issue this period. I have paid tribute to our opportunities for appropriate partners, we will not hesitate to challenge to own Dónall Ó Murchú earlier in my given the wide popularity of our ensure fair and balanced coverage. report and during a ten day period in games. May we bade farewell to former GAA I would like to thank the following I commend the journalists, Presidents Jack Boothman and fourteen corporate partners that photographers, radio and television Joe McDonagh. Jack was a larger than supported our Association during the personnel for bringing the excitement life figure in every way while Joe, as year: Bank of Ireland, O’Neills, NITB, around the build up to our games, well as being a gifted hurler, was one

66 AN CHOMHDHÁIL BHLIANTÚÍL 2017 #WeAreUlsterGAA

TUARASCÁIL AN RÚNAÍ 05 of the greatest orators the Association reward during the past year as were have been possible without the help, has known. Both men have left a Eoin and Mick Gribben, two brothers contributions and support of many great legacy from which we continue from that great Derry footballing staff and volunteers and I thank them to benefit. Frank Kennedy gave a family. Former Derry Hurling Selector for their input. lifetime service to Comhairle Uladh Sean O’Hara also died and the death as a steward and indeed was on duty of Thomas Cassidy in the week of the Writing in 2009, on the 125th just two days before falling gravely ill. Ulster Club Hurling and Camogie Finals anniversary of the founding of the His death occurred a short time after was particularly poignant. GAA, Iar Uachtaraín na hEireann his brother Seamus, who was also an Mary McAleese said; “camaraderie Ulster Council steward, passed away. Former Monaghan County Board like no other, craic like no other and delegate Niall McAdam passed away as community like no other – that is my Down’s three times All-Ireland medal did four Fermanagh Clerics who were GAA.” It is also my GAA and it’s a winner, and 1968 team captain, Joe lifelong GAA supporters namely Canon GAA which is shared and understood Lennon died after a short illness, as Edward Murphy, Canon John McCabe, by many people who are privileged, did his 1968 team colleague Brendan Canon Tom Marron and Fr. Peter honoured and, in many ways, fortunate Sloan. Both men enriched the lives McGuinness. Former County Players to be part of what is a truly great and of GAA followers all over Ireland and John James Tracey and John Maguire caring movement. I wonder if we really nowhere more so than in their native who were members of the 1959 All- appreciate the benefits that come from county. 1946 All-Ireland Junior Medal Ireland Junior winning team also died being part of this terrific organisation. winner Paddy O’Hagan was also called during the past year. Death is always It is a movement of the people, by the to his eternal reward and GAA Gaels painful but when it is a young person people and for the people. throughout Ulster were also saddened the sense of loss can at times be It is the soul of many communities and to learn of the death of former county even more palpable and I particularly the heartbeat of the nation and with player Peter Turley. remember all the young GAA people renewed vigour and energy we can who have died in the past year. build on its infectious energy and bring We were all shocked to learn of the it to new people and new places, both death of respected broadcaster and I extend my sympathy to the family on the island of Ireland and abroad, journalist Séamus Mac Géidigh who did and friends of all members of the GAA and ensure that its heart continues to so much for the promotion of GAA and family in Ulster who have died in 2016. beat both stronger and faster. Our cultural affairs. A great strength of the GAA is the past achievements should serve as a sense of solidarity and togetherness at stimulus for ongoing progression and Long serving Antrim GAA Secretary times of bereavement and I know that it should be a desire of us all to move Gerry Barry and former Armagh GAA this is always a great comfort to the the Association forward in a spirit of Chairman Joe Jordan, both great family of the deceased. The Sacrifice of inclusiveness and togetherness. servants of the Association, were the Mass will be celebrated for all the also called to their eternal reward as deceased members of the Association Is mise, le meas, was , a former Cavan GAA in St. Mary’s Church Burren at 11:00am Chairman and another devoted Gael. on the morning of Convention.

Shea Daly an Ulster Championship CONCLUSION winner with Tyrone and Dan McCaffrey, I can think of few people, other than winner of an All-Ireland minor perhaps Lyndon B Johnson, who’s championship medal in 1947 also first duty on taking office was to died, as did Anna McCaughey, the first oversee the funeral arrangements of female member of the Tyrone County their predecessor. This is a report I Executive. wish I didn’t have to write but such was my fate and I trust that it is a Former Derry Irish Language and fair and accurate reflection of the Cultural Officer Lughaidh MacGiolla past year and does justice to Danny Bhrighde was called to his eternal and his legacy. Writing it would not BRIAN MAC FHÍOBHUÍ Rúnaí

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2017 67