#WeAreUlsterGAA

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2018

CLG ULADH AN CHOMHDHÁIL BHLIANTÚIL 2018 CLUICHÍ | CULTÚR | TEANGA

26Ú EANÁIR 2018 ÓSTÁN AN VILLA ROSE I mBEALACH FÉICH

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2018 #WeAreUlsterGAA #WeAreUlsterGAA

ANNUAL CONVENTION 2018 ANNUAL CONVENTION 2018 05 // Tuarascáil an Rúnaí

Thart fá’n am seo anuraidh, bhí CLG oiriúnach a aontú i gcuimhne Danny; Ní raibh aon ádh ar Aontroim a a imirt sula gcuirfí a gclár inmheánacha Uladh fós ag teacht chun téarmaí ceann inar féidir linn, agus go háirithe thoiread I gcluichí na scoileanna cluichí contae ar bun. Tá laghdú tagtha le bás ár Rúnaí Cúige a raibh meas teaghlach Ó Murchaidh, a bheith agus, do'n chead uair fosta, ní bhfuair ar líon na gclubanna le blianta beaga mór againn air, an Dr Danny Murphy. bróduil as. foireann as Aontroim fhad le cluiche anuas, ach tá roinnt spreagadh ann D'fhreastail sé ar chomhairle Uladh ar ceannais Corn Mhic Giotháin, an ó na hiontrálacha a fuarthas don feadh beagnach 35 bliain. Bhí Danny Bhí an chéad bhliain den CLG in Uladh príomh-chomórtas iománaíochta chomórtas 2018. mar Rúnaí i gcáil ghníomhach nó buan indiaidh thréimhse Danny ar cheann do scoileanna in Uladh agus bhí "an Bhí Comórtas Peile Allianz ina ar feadh 20 bliain. Mar thoradh suntasach ar go leor bealaí. Cé nach chéad uair ariamh" fosta eile in san chomórtas díomá do chontaetha Uladh ar a bhás bhí caillteanais mhóra ar dtáinig mór-onóracha ar bith go Cúige comhpháirtí peile, Corn Mhic Ruairí, a gan aon foireann as an cúige in sna thaithí, ar eolas agus ar oidhreacht Uladh, bhí sraith de eachtaí an chead bhain Naomh Muire, Machaire Fíolta cluichí ceannais agus gan ardú céim na seirbhíse sa CLG in Uladh agus uair acu a fiú tagairt a dhéanadh orthú. don chéad uair. I liathróid láimhe, bhain ar bith. Maidir le hiománaíocht, bhuail ar fud na tíre. Bhain Tír Eoghain an comórtas Peile Charly Shanks as Ard Mhacha a chéad Aontroim Ceatharlach agus bhian faoi-17 'aon-uaire' a eagraíodh chun teideal 40 × 20 Aonair Uile-Éireann, Dún na nGall in éidean Tír Eoghain i Ós rud é go bhfuil an chéad freastal ar imreoirí óga a d'fhéadfadh a agus é anois ach an dara imreoir as gcluiche ceannais uile Uladh chun na chomóradh de bhás Danny anois chailliúint as an deis chun ionadaíocht cúige Uladh indiaidh Paul Brady an teidil Srath Allianz a bhailiú i Roinn 2A thart, is é seo an t-am do CLG Uladh a dhéanamh ar a gcontae mar gheall t-imeacht mhór seo a bhaint amach. agus 3A faoi seach. machnamh a dhéanamh ar an tslí is ar an laghdú ar an ngrúpa aoise fearr a féidir linn rannchuidiú le cur idir-contae ó Faoi - 18 go dtí Faoi -17 GNÍOMHAÍOCHT CLUICHÍ 2017 Bhí ionadaíocht againn sna Féilirí Uí chun cinn agus cothabháil CLG sa i 2018; Ba í Maggie Farrelly an chéad Sa bhliain 2017, d'aisghabháil Tír Rinn agus Mac Riocaird. I gCluiche chúige a mheabhrú mar is oiriúnach bhean, ní hamháin in Uladh ach in Eoghain Corn Anglo Celt don dara Corn Chríostóir Uí Rinn chaill Aontroim ina chuimhne. Thug Danny an oiread Éirinn chun réiteoireacht ar chluiche bliain as a cheile agus bhuaigh i gcluiche iontach le Ceatharlach ar sin dá chuid ama do dhaoine eile go ceannais chlub cúige nuair roghnú í Aontroim arís Corn Liam Harvey. Lean scór líne 5-23 go 4-15. Ba é cluiche bhfuil sé oiriúnach go dtabharfaidh mar réiteoir do’n chluiche ceannais Craobhchomórtais Chlub Uladh ar uile Uladh a bhí i gCluiche Ceannais muid rud éigin ar ais chun a chuimhne Peile Sóisearach idir Naomh Colmcille aghaidh ag mothú ár n-imreoirí agus Corn Nioclás Mhic Riocaird nuair a agus a chuid éachtaí a bheith ina agus Bealach na Léice; Do'n chéad ár lucht féachana. D'fhreastail breis bhuail Doire Ard Mhacha ar scór líne foinse inspioráide do na glúnta atá uair ariamh bhí seisear chontae is 5,500 lucht féachana ar Chluiche 3-23 go 2-15. ann faoi láthair agus na glúnta atá éagsúla i gcraobhchomórtais peile leath cheannais Iomána Uladh idir le teacht. Dá bhrí sin, caithfidh sé a na gclub cúige agus fosta do'n Dún Lathaí agus Sleacht Néill ag An Is mise, le meas, bheith mar thosaíocht don Chomhairle chead uair, theip ar Chlub as Contae Abhainn Beag. Lean Slaughtneil ar a atá ag teacht isteach chun aghaidh a Aontroma a bheith I gcluiche gcead dteideal i 2016 le dhá cheann thabhairt ar an gceist seo agus ómós ceanna is Iománaíochta Uladh. i ndiaidh a chéile nuair a bhuail siad Baile Mhic Uileagóid sa chluiche ceannais i bPáirc na Lúthchleasaíochta a bhaint sa pheil, Iománaíocht, agus faoi seach. Maidir le Rannán 3, tá in Ard Mhacha. Imríodh cluichí ceannais camógaíochta dhá bhliain i ndiaidh a trí fhoireann ceangailte ag barr na na gclubanna Uladh Iomána agus chéile. Tiocfaidh mé ar ais go dtí scéal sraithe agus tá socruithe in áit na camógaíochta arís mar cheannteideal iontach rath Sleacht Neill níos faide siar cluichí atá fágtha a imirt ag tús séasúr dúbailte a léiríonn an dul chun cinn i mo thuarascáil. 2018. Tá an comórtas seo i gceist le mór a rinneadh i gcomhtháthú agus neamhchomhlíonadh cluichí agus is ag obair le príomhgheallsealbhóirí ar Ba é 2017 an séú bliain de’n Sráth gá athchóiriú mór a dhéanamh air. fud an chúige. Táin iománaíochta na gClubanna do Táthar á scrúdú faoi láthair. Dhaoine Fásta. Bhí 22 fhoireann san Go suntasach, bhailigh an club céanna iomlán ar fud chúige Uladh chomh Bhí 28 club páirteach i Sraith Club Peile (Sleacht Néill) Corn Seamus McFerran maith le foirne ó Lú. Cuireadh na Uladh i 2017 le 11 foirne sinsearacha don dara bliain as a chéile nuair a bhí clubanna as cúige Chonnachta a agus 17 club ag leibheal idirmheánacha. an bua acu thar Gaeil an Chabháin i d'iomaigh an chéad uair isteach Bhain Eoghan Rua Cúil Rathain gcluiche ceannais na peile os comhair sa rannóg Chonnachta arís. Bhí trí (Doire) agus Gortín (Tír Eoghain) na 7,500 lucht féachana in Ard Mhacha. roinn go h-iomlán ann. Tháinig An cluichí ceannais Sinsearacha agus Céide (Ard Mhacha) agus Baile na Idirmheánacha, agus bhí an dá chluiche BRIAN MAC FHIOBHUÍ Is éacht do-chreidte é seo do Lorgan (Muineachán) chun cinn ceannais go h-iontach ar fad. Thug an Rúnaí chlub Dhoire an teideal cúige mar bhuaiteoirí Rannáin 1 agus 2 comórtas seo deis do clubanna cluichí

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ANNUAL CONVENTION 2018 ANNUAL CONVENTION 2018 05 // Tuarascáil an Rúnaí

This time last year Ulster GAA was Belnaleck and there was another patrons are increasingly availing of Remarkably, the same club collected regard to Division 3, three teams are Football League was a disappointing still coming to terms with the death refereeing first when two brothers the 'Buy Early & Save' ticket purchase the Seamus McFerran Cup for the tied at the top of the league and have competition for the Ulster counties of our esteemed Provincial Secretary took charge of county senior finals in option which provides discounts on second successive year as they agreed to play off for the title at the with no finalists or promotions. In Dr. Danny Murphy. An ever present different counties in the same year. tickets bought prior to match-day. overcame Cavan Gaels in the football beginning of the 2018 season. This hurling Antrim defeated Carlow on the Ulster Council for close on 35 For the first time ever six different Just two years ago this accounted for final at the Athletic Grounds in front competition is littered with the non- and Donegal defeated Tyrone in an years, Danny had served as Rúnaí in counties were represented in our less than 70% of our ticket sales but in of over 7,500 spectators. This is an fulfilment of games and is in need all Ulster final to collect the Allianz an acting or permanent capacity for provincial club football finals and 2017 almost 90% of people attending unbelievable achievement for the of a major overhaul. This is currently League titles in Division 2A and 3A 20 of those years. With him died a also for the first time an Antrim Club our games bought tickets in advance. Derry club and the fact that their being examined by the Council. respectively. We had representation wealth of knowledge and experience failed to contest the provincial club Our Cisteoir Ciaran McLaughlin and the camogs also won the provincial title in both the Ring and Rackard Finals. and a legacy of service to the GAA in hurling decider. Ulster GAA Finance team of Michelle ensures that the Ulster club treble was The Ulster Football Club League in In the Christy Ring Final, Aontroim Ulster and beyond. McAleer, Ruairi Cunningham and Paul secured two years in a row. I will come 2017 saw a total of 28 clubs involved, were defeated in a brilliant game by Antrim had no luck on the schools' Sanders continue to operate in an back to the wonderful Slaughtneil with 11 teams in senior and 17 teams in Carlow by 5-23 to 4-15. It was an Ulster Given that the first anniversary of front either as, also for the first time, exemplary fashion, while a huge debt success story later in my report. intermediate. Eoghan Rua Coleraine derby in the Nicky Rackard Final where Danny's death has now passed, it is no Antrim side reached the final of of gratitude is also due to Ashelene (Doire) and Gortin (Tír Eoghain) won Derry overcame Armagh on a 3-23 to now the time for Ulster GAA to reflect the Mageean Cup, the premier hurling Groogan, Rose Treanor and Bernie 2017 saw the sixth year of the Táin the Senior and Intermediate finals, 2-15 scoreline. on how Danny's contribution to the competition for schools in Ulster and Fox for their herculean efforts in the Adult Club Hurling League. This with both finals being great spectacles. promotion and fostering of the GAA there was another first in its football co-ordination and distribution of ticket initiative saw a total of 22 teams This competition again provided DR MCKENNA CUP in the province can be adequately counterpart, the MacRory Cup, which sales over the past year. Ticket prices compete from across the province clubs with competitive action at In our first competition of the year, remembered. Danny gave so much was won by St. Mary's, Magherafelt were again frozen by Ulster GAA in of Ulster as well as teams from Louth. their appropriate level prior to the the Dr McKenna Cup, Tyrone again of his time to others that it is fitting for the first time. 2017 but this needs to be reviewed The Connacht clubs who originally commencement of their internal collected the title for the sixth we give something back in order for in 2018 as Ulster prices are now well competed were again incorporated county games programmes. successive year by defeating Doire his memory and his achievements In handball Armagh's Charly Shanks below that of the other provinces for into the Connacht section. There However, the uptake by clubs has by 2-13 to 1-07 at Páirc Esler. I extend to be a source of inspiration to the won his first All Ireland Men's Singles comparable fixtures. For example, a were a total of three divisions. Keady declined in recent times, though my gratitude to Bank of Ireland for current and future generations. It 40 x 20 title, becoming only the stand ticket for other provincial finals (Ard Mhacha) and Castleblayney there is some encouragement to be their continued sponsorship of this must therefore be a priority for the second Ulster player after Paul was on average 17% more expensive (Muineachán) emerged as the Division gleaned from the entries received important competition in the Ulster incoming Council to address this issue Brady to win this prestigious event. than in Ulster, while provincial final 1 and 2 winners respectively. With for the 2018 competition. The Allianz GAA calendar. The Dr McKenna Cup and agree an appropriate tribute to terrace tickets were 38% more Danny's memory; one in which we, FINANCE expensive in the other provinces. and particularly the Murphy family, It was a successful year financially for can look upon with a great sense Comhairle Uladh and while football 2017 GAMES ACTIVITY of pride. championship attendances 2017 were In 2017, the Anglo Celt Cup was down from 172,693 to 124,651 on the reclaimed by Tír Eoghain for the The first year of the GAA in Ulster in previous year it must be remembered second successive year while the post Danny era has been a notable that both 2016 semi-finals ended in Aontroim again won the Liam Harvey one in many respects. While major a draw and had to be replayed, while Cup. The Ulster Club Championships honours may not have come to Ulster there were no replays in 2017. Average continue to enthuse our players and there were a series of firsts which gate receipts remained consistent spectators. Over 5,500 spectators are worthy of reference. Tyrone won and I wish to acknowledge the many attended the Ulster Hurling Semi Final the 'one-off' All-Ireland U-17 Football patrons who continue to support our between Dunloy and Slaughtneil at competition which was organised to games in such encouraging numbers. Owenbeg. Slaughtneil followed up accommodate young players who their 2016 maiden title with a two in a may miss out on the opportunity to Once again online ticket sales have row by beating Ballygalget in the final represent their county due to the proved very popular and more and at the Athletic Grounds. The Ulster reduction in the minor inter-county more of our patrons are choosing this Hurling Club Final and Ulster Camogie age-group from U-18 to U-17 in 2018; as their preferred method of purchase. Final were again played as a double Maggie Farrelly became the first However most supporters still prefer to header illustrating the great strides female not only in Ulster but in Ireland purchase through their club or county that have been made in integration to referee a provincial club final when and I thank the ticket administrators in and working with key stakeholders she took charge of Junior Football each of our counties for their ongoing throughout the province. Final between Naomh Colmcille and efforts. It is encouraging that our

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Competition ticket continues to be In the first semi-final, played at St Congratulations go to Tír Eoghain on very popular and at £20/€25 provides Tiernach’s Park saw Tír Eoghain a deserved success. unbeatable value for money. Just over surprisingly easily defeat Dún na nGall 1200 tickets were purchased for the by 1-21 to 1-12. The following Saturday The 2018 Ulster Senior Football 2017 competition. night in the Athletic Grounds, Darragh Championship will be played over a O’Hanlon’s penalty goal proved to be shortened period with the four Quarter SENIOR FOOTBALL just enough as An Dún held on to beat Final games taking place over two CHAMPIONSHIP Muineachán by 1-14 to 0-15 in what weekends and counties will be playing The 2017 Ulster Senior Football was the upset of the Championship. every two weeks should they remain in Championship commenced at St the hunt for the Anglo Celt. Tiernach’s Park, Clones on Saturday The Ulster Final took place three 20th May, where Muineachán overcame weeks later where An Dún and Tír ALL-IRELAND Fear Manach 1-20 to 1-11. The following Eoghain met at St Tiernach’s Park, FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP day, a strong Dún na nGall team Clones on Sunday 16th July. Over The All-Ireland Senior Football performance comfortably saw off 32,000 spectators attended the Final Championship for Ulster nGall won by a point away to An Mhí continued as they easily disposed of Doire controlled for long periods and Aontroim by 3-19 to 1-09. One week on a day when the Ulster Senior representatives began on 17th June while Ard Mhacha recorded a five point Tír Eoghain by 2-17 to 0-11, en route won out by 1-22 to 2-12 to collect the later, neighbours Doire and Tír Eoghain Football Champions from 25 years with both Aontroim and Doire win away to Iar Mhí. Ard Mhacha and to collecting another Sam Maguire. Fr Murray Cup. Congratulations to went head to head for the second previous, Dún na nGall were honoured. involved. Aontroim lost out in a titanic Muineachán continued this good form Doire on their victory. consecutive year in Celtic Park with a With the inclusion of honouring struggle away to Sligeach by 0-22 to with further victories away to Tiobrad MINOR FOOTBALL In the All Ireland Quarter Finals, similar outcome, Doire 0-11 Tír Eoghain the successful teams from the past, 3-07. Doire fared better on the road as Arann and Ceatharlach respectively. CHAMPIONSHIP there were good wins for both our 0-22. The eagerly awaited derby Cumann na mBunscol exhibition they emerged victorious in Port Lairge By Round Four there were five Ulster The Ulster Minor Football two representatives. Doire edged out between An Dún and Ard Mhacha took games, band entertainment, the by virtue of a 1-17 to 0-13 win. counties remaining in the All Ireland Championship continues to excite and Sligeach by a point while An Cabhán place on Sunday 4th June as the home Minor Football Final and the Senior series, including the Ulster champions, entertain. These games were fitting had a great win over Gaillimh by 1-11 side edged out winners by 0-15 to 2-07 showpiece, Ulster Final day continues On 25th June, two of our counties were Tír Eoghain. In a most un-Donegal curtain raisers on championship days to 0-11. In the semi-finals, Ciarraí ended in an exciting encounter. In the last to be a celebration of our great in action while the very successful Féile like performance, Gaillimh ran out and 2017 again produced another great the Breffni County hopes with Ulster Senior Football Championship Association in the province of Ulster. Peile na nOg event was being hosted impressive 4-17 to 0-14 winners at competition. 2017 saw the final year of a 2-22 to 2-10 win while Doire marched quarter final, played at Kingspan The game was evenly balanced in the across An Cabhán, Fear Manach and Markievicz Park. Muineachán exacted the Under 18 Competition and is being on with a brilliant 0-17 to 0-14 win over Breffni, a late Conor McManus goal was first half but Tír Eoghain assumed total Muineachán. The Breffni County came revenge on An Dún at Croke Park as replaced by an Under 17 Championship. Áth Cliath. the difference as Muineachán won by control after the short whistle and away from Tullamore with a good four they finished strongly to win by 1-24 The Ulster counties have now voted for 1-15 to 0-15. emerged as 2-17 to 0-15 champions. point victory over the home side while to 1-16. On the same double bill, Ard a ‘back door’ championship within the In the All Ireland Final, they met a Ard Mhacha ended the year for Fear Mhacha continued their journey in a province and this will be introduced in team at the top of their powers as a Manach on a 0-20 to 0-11 scoreline in tense victory over Cill Dara by 1-17 the year ahead. David Clifford inspired Ciarraí ran out front of over 8,000 spectators in the to 0-17. In the all Ulster clash between convincing 6-17 to 1-08 winners. A Athletic Grounds. Armagh and Tyrone on 5th August In the Preliminary Round, Muineachán disappointing end to the year for our we were reminded of the numerous finished strongly to ease out 1-17 to Ulster champions, but the experience The following weekend, Doire almost clashes in the noughties between these 2-07 winners over Fear Manach. In of playing in such massive occasions pulled off a seismic shock in Castlebar. great neighbours. However, this time the quarter finals, we were treated in front of huge crowds will leave However, a late comeback in normal around the game lacked the intensity to four brilliant games. Aontroim an indelible positive mark on these time and extra time domination saw of old and Tyrone ran out convincing recorded an extra time victory away youngsters. Maigh Eo record a 2-21 to 1-13 victory. winners on a 3-17 to 0-08 scoreline. to Dún na nGall, An Cabhán overcame Dún na nGall defeated Longford at Immediately afterwards, Dublin Muineachán, Doire beat Tír Eoghain The Special Under 17 Competition was Ballybofey as they attempted to get again demonstrated their continuing by a point while a late penalty save organised in 2017 for those players their season back on track. Seven days dominance in a 1-19 to 0-12 victory saw An Dún defeat Ard Mhacha. In who would miss out on Under 18 later, An Cabhán were overcome by a over Monaghan. These results set up the semi-finals, Doire beat Aontroim Championship in 2018. I am pleased serious second half display by Tiobraid an eagerly awaited All Ireland Semi by 3-17 to 0-09 in Clones while An to report that after collecting the Arann at Kingspan Breffni while there Final between the Leinster and Ulster Cabhán defeated An Dún by 0-15 to Ulster title, Tír Eoghain would go on were positive results for Muineachán, champions on Sunday 27th August. 2-07 at the Athletic Arounds, Armagh Dún na nGall and Ard Mhacha on their However, the Áth Cliath juggernaut The final meeting brought together travels in Leinster. The Farney men had Doire and an Cabhán in a game which a facile win in Loch Garman, Dún na

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to claim the All Ireland by defeating On Wednesday 15th March, the four front of a large crowd at the Athletic wins for Cavan Gaels, Derrygonnelly, at Celtic Park, and it turned on a goal Semi-Finals played on 8th April, Ard Ros Comain at Croke Park. Well done quarter finals took place and there Grounds in Armagh. Dún na nGall Kilcar and Slaughtneil. with fifteen minutes to go as Naomh Mhacha defeated An Dún by 1-17 to to all involved. were wins for Doire, An Cabhán and recorded an impressive 3-17 to 0-13 Colmcille emerged as 1-09 to 0-06 2-12 at Inniskeen while Aontroim beat Ard Mhacha. Tír Eoghain and Dún na win to claim the Irish News Cup. At the Semi Final stage, we were winners. Well done to all the club Dún na nGall by 3-24 to 1-08 at Celtic UNDER 21 FOOTBALL nGall could not be separated after Congratulations to Dún na nGall on treated to a brilliant spectacle of club champions. Park. The 2017 Ulster Senior Hurling CHAMPIONSHIP extra time in Healy Park and one this historic achievement. In the All activity in this province. Slaughtneil Final was played at Owenbeg on 16th This Championship continued to thrive week later, it was Dún na nGall who Ireland Semi Final, played in Kingspan and Kilcar served up a swashbuckling ALL IRELAND CLUB April. Aontroim produced a strong in its usual Wednesday night slot progressed via a 0-18 to 1-09 scoreline. Breffni, they lost out to Áth Cliath by 2-17 to 0-17 affair in Healy Park, Omagh FOOTBALL CHAMPIONSHIP display to retain the Liam Harvey Cup in the fixture programme, where it Adverse weather conditions meant the 1-13 to 0-9. in a game that was covered live on In a great game of football on 11th by virtue of a 5-22 to 1-12 victory over did not directly impinge on counties postponement of both semi-finals and TG4. It was one of the games of the February 2017, Slaughtneil recorded a Ard Mhacha. Well done to all involved. preparations for National Football this unfortunately led to a congested CLUB FOOTBALL year and a demonstration of Ulster historic 0-12 to 0-10 win over Leinster Leagues and also benefited from an conclusion to the competition with the CHAMPIONSHIP football at its best. The other semi-final kingpins, St Vincents at Pairc Esler in The two tier system saw the Ulster increased interest from our spectators. Ulster final having to be re-scheduled The Ulster Club Championship still had to be settled at the second time the All Ireland Senior Semi Final. On Senior Hurling Shield include Dún na In 2018, this competition will become to a Monday evening. It took place five has that lure for our supporters and of asking and what a thriller the replay St Patrick’s Day, the Derry and Ulster nGall, Fear Manach, Muineachán and an Under 20 Grade and as per the days after the re-fixed semi-finals and the local aspect means that all clubs was with Cavan Gaels just getting champions just fell short as Dr Crokes Tír Eoghain. Tír Eoghain overcame Official Guide must be played during five days before the All-Ireland semi- at all levels can aspire to the greatest the better of Derrygonnelly Harps claimed the Andy Merrigan Cup by Fear Manach by 4-19 to 0-10 while the months of June, July and August, final. A request by Comhairle Uladh to stage throughout the province and with an injury time three-pointer in a 1-09 to 1-07. Doire ousted Muineachán on a 6-28 though Comhairle Uladh will bring postpone the All-Ireland semi-final was indeed, Croke Park. The Senior and seven goal thriller. In the Final at the to 0-09 scoreline. One week later, a motion to Congress – subject to rejected by the Central Competitions Intermediate Club Finals were played Athletic Grounds, Slaughtneil were In the All Ireland Intermediate Club Doire won the Shield beating approval at the provincial convention – Control Committee. as a double header in the Athletic in total control from start to finish as Championship on 29th January, Tír Eoghain at the fantastic new to allow the competition to commence Grounds while the Junior Final took they outscored their valiant Breffni Pomeroy were involved in another Carrickmore Eire Óg club ground on the last weekend in May. In the Ulster semi-finals, Doire required place the previous evening. opponents by 1-15 to 0-10 to retain outstanding game of football. This by 1-17 to 1-12. Congratulations. extra time to defeat Ard Mhacha in In the Preliminary Round of the Senior the Seamus McFerran Cup. time, they were on the wrong end as In the Preliminary Round on Celtic Park while Dún na nGall had a Championship, which was a repeat St Colmcilles from An Mhí won out by The restructuring of the national Wednesday 8th March, Muineachán big win over An Cabhán at Brewster of the 2016 Ulster Final, Slaughtneil The Intermediate Football Club 3-11 to 2-13 at the Athletic Grounds. In competitions aims to provide a high required a late comeback to overcome Park. In the final, Dún na nGall and narrowly saw off the challenge from Championship remains an extremely the Junior grade, Rock won their Semi number of games for Ulster counties Aontroim at Upper Malone, Belfast. Doire played out a lively encounter in Kilcoo. In the Quarter Finals, there were competitive grade and 2017 was no Final against the British champions, at their own level while the apathy different. In the Preliminary Round, Dunedin Connolly’s but lost out in the towards the Ulster Senior Hurling Newbridge defeated Shercock in final to Glenbeigh-Glencar (Ciarraí), on Championship in recent times has been Kingspan Breffni. In the Quarter Finals, a 1-14 to 1-11 scoreline at Croke Park. obvious. Therefore, with a heavy heart, there were wins for Moy, Milford, The 2017/18 All Ireland Junior the Ulster Senior Hurling Championship Rostrevor and Newbridge. In the Semi Football Club Quarter Final pitted has been discontinued for a three- Finals, we were treated to two brilliant our champions, Naomh Colmcille year period (2018 -2020). Again, I will encounters. Moy produced a brilliant against the British champions, Dunedin address this issue in greater detail later second half in a 2-16 to 1-09 win over Connolly’s of Edinburgh. Played in my report. Newbridge while Rostrevor edged out on Saturday 9th December 2017, Milford, 0-12 to 0-11. In the Final, Moy the Donegal and Ulster champions ALL IRELAND HURLING just about did enough to defeat the remained in the All Ireland hunt with CHAMPIONSHIP Down champions by 0-9 to 0-8 in a a narrow 1-10 to 2-06 victory. In the Christy Ring Cup, Aontroim and tight tussle. An Dún were Ulster’s representatives. SENIOR HURLING An Dún began their campaign with In the Junior Football Championship, CHAMPIONSHIP a home win against Ros Comáin and Cavan winners Ballymachugh won The 2017 Championship was a four in Round Two they lost out away to their Preliminary Round game against county competition with the Shield Aontroim on a 3-15 to 0-12 scoreline. Patrick Sarsfields. In the Quarter including another four counties. An In the quarter finals, they beat Londáin Finals, there were wins for Belnaleck, Cabhán did not enter, although they away but Aontroim were once again Tattyreagh, Naomh Colmcille and did compete in the Lory Meagher Cup their nemesis in a semi-final defeat at Doire Trasna. In the Semi Finals, there after a short absence. Cushendall on a 4-23 to 0-15 scoreline. were wins for Belnaleck and Naomh Aontroim reached the Christy Ring Colmcille. The Junior Final was played In the Senior Hurling Championship Final by virtue of wins over An Dún

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twice and Ceatharlach. In the final they to enter the Leinster Minor Hurling again met the Leinster side but for the Championship and Antrim and Down second consecutive year Antrim came have entered the competition for 2018. up short at the last hurdle as Carlow won a thrilling 5-23 to 4-15 encounter. UNDER 21 HURLING An unbelievable game of hurling, but CHAMPIONSHIP an extremely disappointing end to Four Ulster counties competed in the Aontroim’s season. Under 21 Championship, which was again played on a knock out basis. The Nicky Rackard Cup saw Ard The semi-finals saw a major surprise Mhacha, Dún na nGall, Doire, as Doire beat Aontroim by 2-11 to 3-06 Muineachán and Tír Eoghain as the at Owenbeg. The other game saw a competitors from the province. In the comprehensive win for An Dún over quarter finals Muineachán defeated Ard Mhacha at the Athletic Grounds. Dún na Gall and Ard Mhacha easily In the final played at Corrigan Park, defeated Longfort. The semi-finals saw Doire claimed the title by virtue victories for Doire and Ard Mhacha of a 3-17 to 1-09 win over An Dún. over Muineachán and Tír Eoghain Congratulations to the Oak Leaf respectively. In the final, it was county. However, the All Ireland Semi heartbreak again for Ard Mhacha as Final epitomised the urgent need Doire claimed the Nicky Rackard Cup to restructure the Under 21 Hurling on a 3-23 to 2-15 scoreline. Well done Championship as Cill Channaigh to all involved. annihilated the Ulster champions by 8-35 to 0-07 at Semple Stadium. MINOR HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP Comhairle Laighean have agreed to Five counties competed in the Ulster accommodate one Ulster county in Minor Hurling Championship in 2017. the 2018 Leinster Under 21 Hurling In the quarter final, the shield winners, Championship. Aontroim and An Dún na nGall had a convincing win Dún have confirmed that they wish by 4-24 to 1-08 over Ard Mhacha at to compete for this place. The Ballybofey. In the semi-final played winners will progress to the Leinster at Corrigan Park, Aontroim disposed Championship while the losers of of An Dún on a 1-21 to 0-18 scoreline this play off will participate in while Doire defeated Dún na nGall, the All Ireland B competition along 4-16 to 2-06 at Celtic Park. The with the other Ulster counties following week, at Owenbeg, Aontroim who have entered. emerged victorious by 3-13 to 2-08. Well done to Aontroim. In the All ULSTER CLUB HURLING Ireland Quarter Final, Aontroim were CHAMPIONSHIP well beaten by Áth Cliath by 2-22 In the Ulster Senior Club to 0-11 at Pairc Esler. Well done to Championship, we were treated to Dún na nGall who secured the Ulster some great encounters. Slaughtneil Minor Hurling Shield by defeating Tír recovered from an early Dunloy blitz Eoghain in the final by 3-19 to 0-05. to run out 1-18 to 2-08 winners. In the The Ulster Minor Hurling Championship other semi-final, Ballygalget overcame has been discontinued for a three Lisbellaw 2-26 to 0-8 at Corrigan Park. year period (2018 -2020). A decision The Ulster Final was played as a double of Special Congress now allows for header with the Ulster Senior Camogie Ulster counties of a suitable standard Final and Slaughtneil emerged

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victorious in both games, the hurling A Special GAA Congress held on Minor levels for a three-year period, will give more meaningful games to one Ulster county will participate in Leinster and hopefully in time this will success over Ballygalget coming on a 30 September to deal with the to co-incide with the pilot period of the Ulster counties at their own level, while the Leinster Championship. While bear fruit as we aim to make a lasting 2-21 to 1-12 scoreline. re-organisation of the Hurling significant hurling changes which were the opportunity now exists for Ulster the Leinster U-21 Championship is and telling improvement to hurling The Intermediate Club Hurling Championships and the facilitation agreed at the Special Congress teams to compete in the Leinster organised on a seeded knock-out levels in the province. Championship was a brilliant six team of regular club games passed a motion in Croke Park on 30 September. Championship at U-21 and Minor level. basis, their Minor Championship is competition. There were quarter final barring the playing of inter-county While the Ulster Hurling Championships run on a seeded round robin basis With all 32 counties represented in wins for Patrick Sarsfields and Lavey. tournaments above U-16 level. For a have a special place in all of our hearts An U-21 B Hurling Competition is now and this year both Down and Antrim the Celtic Challenge, Ulster counties In the Semi-Finals, Middletown and number of seasons Queen's University the decision was taken in the best a prospect open to Ulster counties will have the opportunity to compete were very successful in five counties Lavey had great wins over Eire Og Hurling Club have organised the interests of hurling in Ulster. which was not previously an option against team of similar standard in reaching the finals and Antrim Carrickmore and Patrick Sarsfields Conor McGurk Cup, named in honour and in 2018 three Ulster counties will (Division 2), Down (Division 3) and respectively. Middletown collected of one of their former players, as a In 2017 the Ulster Senior Hurling take part in this competition, while Tyrone (Division 6) winning. the title at Corrigan Park defeating pre-season tournament prior to the Championship was moved to an April Lavey in a brilliant final that ebbed and commencement of the Allianz Hurling slot at the behest of the counties but flowed from start to finish. 2-16 to 2-13 leagues. Rather than see the demise it failed to capture the imagination of was the final score. of the tournament, Ulster GAA have either the players or the public, with a now taken this tournament under combined attendance of just around In the Junior Club Hurling their auspices and will organise it in 1,000 people at its three games. Championship, there were quarter conjunction with Queen's University. I said last year that it made no sense final wins for Na Magha, Setanta, This is a positive development and for the Ulster Champions at U-21 and Mullahoran and Gort na Mona, albeit Bank of Ireland have kindly agreed to Minor level to compete in the All- after a replay. The semi-finals saw Na sponsor it, as they do with its football Ireland semi-finals and quarter-finals Magha defeat Mullahoran and Setanta counterpart the Dr. McKenna Cup. It is respectively. If anyone needed to be beat Gort na Mona. The Junior Final hoped that the tournament will grow convinced otherwise the truth was produced a great spectacle as Setanta in strength in the coming years and surely brought home with a massive just edged out the Derry champions become a permanent fixture of the dose of reality when Derry went under by 2-17 to 3-11 at Pairc MacCumhaill. GAA's winter games schedule. by the massive margin of 52 points to Kilkenny in the All-Ireland U-21 semi- ALL IRELAND CLUB INTER PROVINCIAL final in Thurles. This was a result which HURLING CHAMPIONSHIP CHAMPIONSHIPS did little for the competition, most Slaughtneil were Ulster’s The Inter Provincial Championships in surely done nothing for Derry and representatives in the All Ireland Senior both football and hurling did not take ultimately did nothing for Kilkenny Club Championship, having won the place in 2017. Ulster are the current as they were beaten by Limerick in 2016 Ulster Club Championship. In the holders of the Football competition the decider. All Ireland Semi Final they met Cuala and with a record 33 wins it is a from Dublin and were defeated 3-21 to competition that the province has Antrim were also heavily defeated 2-11 at the Athletic Grounds, Armagh. always been very committed to. by Dublin in the All-Ireland minor After collecting the Ulster Intermediate While fully accepting the constraints quarter-final and indeed failed to title in 2016, St Brigid's Cloughmills of the overall fixtures programme, the field against the same opposition in represented Ulster in the All Ireland inter-provincial championships have the one-off U-17 semi-final. This was series. On 14th January they were a long and proud tradition and it will hugely disappointing, especially as beaten by the British champions, be a sad day if it is decided that these other counties may have availed of Robert Emmett’s by 0-16 to 0-14 after two great competitions are no longer the opportunity had more time been extra time in Greenford. In the Junior worthy of a place in the GAA calendar. available to them. That said, given grade, Lamh Dhearg were defeated the U-21 and Minor experiences it’s by a strong Mooncoin side in the All ULSTER HURLING doubtful if anything other than another Ireland semi-final on 29th January At its November meeting the Ulster heavy defeat would have been the by 5-11 to 0-08. Council’s Competition Control result for the Ulster champions. Committee took the decision to The new round robin format of the CONOR MCGURK CUP discontinue with the Ulster Hurling Joe McDonagh (Tier 2), Christy Ring, Championships at Senior, U-21 and Nicky Rackard and Lory Meagher Cups

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Ulster GAA remain determined to Shannon Gaels Club. The senior the 45 man Hurling squad. something special. provide a games programme for clubs, competition was won by Antrim's Within schools hurling, the highlight especially for those in the developing Donal McKernan, Ciaran Watson from was the Mageenan Cup final where St SLAUGHTNEIL counties of Ulster and beyond. In 2017, Down claimed the Under 16 title and Patrick’s Maghera defeated An Dún in In my report to last year’s Convention regional competitions were ran at U16 the Camogie competitions were won the final played in the Arena Stadium I applauded the tremendous (nine team league) and U18 (12 team by Orlagh O'Hara (senior) and Roisin at the Dub. The game was streamed achievement of the Slaughtneil league). Indoor hurling continues to McCormick (U16), both of whom are live on facebook and received over Emmet’s Club in winning senior grow in participation. Our regional from Antrim. Congratulations to all 10,000 views. provincial titles across the three hurling staff are linking with counties the winners. codes of Camogie, Gaelic Football to provide weekly competition for I would like to thank Ulster Hurling and Hurling, stating that it was clubs in their local areas. Unfortunately, Much effort is going into hurling Development Officer Kevin Kelly (and undoubtedly the greatest achievement the Táin league is in need of a academy teams. In order to develop an Jimmy Darragh before him) for their by any club ever in a single calendar transformation. Currently in its sixth appealing games programme, we have efforts in promoting the game in the year. Now they have repeated the year, there was participation by 22 once again gone outside our provincial province and I also pay great credit ‘treble’ and few would wager against teams played over three divisions. boundaries and this has certainly been to the National Hurling Development this great community centred South Each year it has proved difficult a huge benefit. The activity has been Manager Martin Fogarty for his help Derry Club adding to their already to ensure a full commitment from streamlined to set dates to lessen the and assistance throughout the year impressive trophy collection. Words and Kerry cannot meet before the It is therefore an advantage to clubs in this competition and there burden on clubs and especially dual and particularly for his input into our really fail to adequately describe what semi-final stage. avoid the Preliminary Round. While is consistently a battle to get the players. All age grades now culminate provincial hurling workshops. this club has achieved over the past every Ulster county has played in fixtures played. This is currently being with the National tournaments in two years as time after time they have Ulster therefore is the only truly the Preliminary Round since the examined, although the day when August, with the annual ‘Peter O’Keefe Also, congratulations to St Mary's risen to the occasion for ‘the honour of ‘open draw’ championship and this millennium, some have been more all clubs in Ulster will be competing Cup’, in Ballyshannon, becoming a CBGS Belfast in setting a new Guinness the little village.’ has served us well over many years. ‘unfortunate’ than others. This year, against each other in a structured national tournament in 2018. World Record for the largest ever But it also places a great emphasis for example, will see Cavan’s seventh league format is still a long way off. hurling lesson. I was privileged to be The Camogs added to their Ulster on ‘luck’ and some counties have appearance since 2000, while Derry Over 100 people attended the Ulster The Subway Players Academy, at present for part of the proceedings crown by going on to lift All-Ireland been ’luckier’ than others. It has have appeared just twice.I believe that Póc Fada Final on Cuilcagh Mountain, Ulster University in Jordanstown had and the joy and enthusiasm of the honours, while the hurlers lost out to been well documented that for 17 there is merit in introducing a scenario which was kindly hosted by the local representation from all nine Counties in pupils, staff and coaches was truly a strong Cuala side in the All-Ireland consecutive years Down were drawn whereby a team that is drawn to play semi-final. The footballers were most away in the First Round of the Ulster in the Preliminary Round in a given unlucky to go under to Dr Crokes on Championship, while now Antrim have year should be exempt for a period St. Patrick’s Day but no doubt both the not been drawn at home since 2010. of time from playing in it again.An footballers and the hurlers will give Given the relatively competitive nature exemption for two or three years would their all as they aim to emulate the of the Ulster Championship any form be reasonable, though there would achievements of their camogie sisters of seeding would be impractical and be potential for extending this to four in securing national honours. in any event it’s not an avenue that I years if there was the consensus to have any desire to pursue. Nor should do so. I certainly believe that this is ULSTER FOOTBALL we be proscriptive about home and something that merits further debate. CHAMPIONSHIP DRAW away games, though they can lead to a I had occasion to attend my first All degree of ‘unfairness’ as highlighted by SCHEDULING OF Ireland Championship draw back in the examples referred to above. There COUNTY FINALS October and one thing that struck me is however one area where some level County final day is the blue riband was that Ulster was the only province of equilibrium could be contemplated. event in the annual GAA calendar for that does not have some form of It is well known that the track record our County Committees and followers ‘conditions’ attached to their draw. of teams that play in the Preliminary of gaelic games within the counties. There is seeding in both Leinster Round of the Ulster Championship There is something special about the and Munster, while in Connaught the is not impressive when it comes to day and while the competing clubs teams which play London and New winning the title, though Donegal did obviously take centre stage, it is also York are decided on a rotational basis. win the All-Ireland from that starting a celebration for the entire county In Leinster the semi-finalists from the position in 2012. as it marks the highlight of the club previous year are excluded from the scene within it. In an era when the First Round draw and in Munster Cork

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promotion and coverage of our games two players whose performances have series against Australia. defender from the Four Masters Club Like players and team officials, referees will reduce to just one in 2018 and if it is arguably more important than ever, lit up the playing fields of Ireland over twice represented Ireland on the will make mistakes and while there were not for the unavailability of Croke it is important for counties to maximise many years He is undoubtedly one of the greatest International Rules stage, won four are times while we may feel aggrieved Park on the last weekend in August their potential. exponents of the game in Ulster and All-Star awards and was, most notably, by decisions taken by the man in the there would be none at all. For the vast Sean Cavanagh made 89 championship while he may have been disappointed named Footballer of The Year in 2012 middle, there can be absolutely no majority of counties August will also be We didn't do this to great effect in appearances for Tyrone and this is a in missing out on one last All-Ireland when 'Sam' came to 'The Hills' for a justification for any abuse, verbal or totally free to play club games for after 2017 when five of the nine County record for an outfield player. Since final appearance he can take great joy second time. He also won a National physical, of any match official. Such the first weekend of that month just Football Finals in Ulster were played bursting onto the scene in 2002 he in the fact that he captained Tyrone to Football League medal in 2007 and is actions are indefensible and also make two counties will remain in the hurling on the same day and to compound has enthralled us with his exploits up, back-to-back Ulster titles in his final the proud holder of three Ulster Senior it more difficult to attract people to championship and four in the football matters the Preliminary Round of the down and across the playing pitches two seasons and more so in that he Football Championship medals 'take up the whistle.' In such a scenario championship. County Committees Ulster Club Championship between of Ireland. From his initial has left a legacy which will hopefully Karl will continue to play with his club there are no winners as without will need to remain firm with team Kilcoo and Slaughtneil was also on championship outing in a drawn inspire generations of young players and is also involved with underage referees there are no games. I thank managers to ensure that county that date. Due to such a spread of encounter against Armagh in Clones for many years to come. development squads in Donegal, the Referees Committee under the players are available to clubs for the games opportunities were lost but in 2002 (his first of many great battles so the next generation of Donegal Chairmanship of Jim Murray for all maximum possible time and especially the revision of the fixtures calendar, against his neighbours from across the Sean finished the year by playing footballers will have the opportunity their work during the year. during the month of April. Start as you which includes a later start to the River Blackwater and where he scored a pivotal role in Moy Tir Na nOg’s to benefit from his knowledge and mean to continue and if you get it right Ulster Club championship, provides his first championship goal) to his annexing of the Ulster Intermediate understanding of the game. He has ASSOCIATION MATTERS in Year One life will be much more new opportunities for a co-ordinated last encounter against Dublin in Club Championship and wouldn’t it be also recently joined the Donegal senior The Special Congress on 30 September comfortable moving forward. approach to fixture scheduling. This is Croke Park in the All-Ireland semi- a fitting reward for this great gaelic team management and they will no agreed a range of changes which will a matter that we will discuss further final Sean Cavanagh gave his all for star if he could add an All-Ireland Club doubt benefit from his vast experience significantly benefit the club player Last year in my first Provincial with counties in the coming weeks. his beloved county. medal to his wonderful array of inter- as a player. I thank Sean and Karl and in both hurling and football. The Secretary’s Report I highlighted the county medallions. indeed all the inter-county players who fixtures issue has been an issue that difficulties being caused by a lack of SEAN AND KARL His three All-Ireland and six Ulster retired in 2017 for their efforts and for has generated more column inches consistency in the interpretation to While a number of high profile inter- senior medals sit nicely alongside his Karl Lacey made 65 championship helping to make our lives that bit more and hours of debate over many years ‘black card’ offences and in particular county players hung up their boots two National League medals and five appearances for Donegal (a record enjoyable. Thanks for the memories. and, given the complexities of the those which fall under the category in 2017 and I thank them all for the All-Star awards. A former Footballer of he shares with Christy Toye) and requirement to find an acceptable of ‘deliberate’ fouling. I suggested entertainment they have provided us the Year, he is among that elite band of after 14 seasons with the Tir Conaill REFEREES mix between club/county, hurling/ then that for such fouls the black card with over the years. I hope I will be Gaelic footballers who have captained men he has decided to retire from In concluding my summary of games football and the different grades in the should be replaced by a yellow card forgiven if I make special reference to their country in the International Rules inter-county football. The dashing activity in 2017, I wish to thank our respective codes, it is fair to say that and a 13m free awarded, irrespective match officials. I thank all our referees there is no utopia or no solution that of where on the field the foul occurred for their time, commitment and will receive universal acceptance. (unless it happened in the ‘large involvement in the delivery of our However only the most partial of square’ when a penalty would games programme which included 380 commentators could conclude that the be awarded). games in 25 different competitions changes adopted on 30 September will in 2017. Without referees, there are not benefit the club player. Not only is Nothing I have seen in the last twelve simply no games. All of our referees the month of April now free for club months has changed my opinion – the make themselves available and some activity (apart from the Allianz League problem still remains and, arguably, has at very short notice. On behalf of Division 1 and 2 Finals on 1 April) but got even worse. There were occasions Ulster GAA I say thank you to all of our there are eight additional weekends over the summer when players were referees for their continued support. free from inter-county activity in 2018 ‘black carded’ and even with the most We all are well aware that refereeing than there were in 2017. By digging liberal interpretation of the rule, the is no easy task and some of the a little deeper we discover that in offence could not be considered as difficulties faced by referees – and 2017 there were 63 adult inter-county being in any way consistent with the counties trying to recruit referees fixtures played in April – in 2018 there ‘deliberate’ benchmark. The 'black – were excellently portrayed by will just be the two referred to above. card' places an additional burden on Fermanagh Referees' Administrator referees. The key word is ‘deliberate’ Martin Higgins in his report to the The month of September is also and while the task of the referee Erne County's Annual Convention virtually free for club activity – in and his officials is not an easy one, last month. 2017 there were six adult inter-county before they terminate a player’s games played in September and this

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involvement in a game they must and benefits for the GAA in the county Senior Responsible Owner (SRO) Group (STG) was particularly note- be absolutely certain in their own should the planning permission be Tom Daly and Board members put worthy and has increased confidence minds that the act was 'deliberate.' granted in due course. in significant work during 2017 levels for the delivery of the project. A referee can show a player a 'red in overseeing the project team A pre-planning application assurance card' if he deems the action by the The Mooreland and Owenvaragh work on the planning application, report from the STG to the DFC player warrants it, irrespective of Residents Association (MORA) remain environmental statements and the Programme Board gave assurances whether or not he believes (or opposed to seeing the site developed ongoing fresh business case for the that the GAA and the STG had reached doesn't know) if the action was in the way that the GAA require to project which has been submitted a consensus on a viable design that deliberate. With the 'black card' the serve as a Provincial Stadium under the to the Department for Communities was sufficiently developed and referee doesn't have this 'luxury.' NI Executive approved Programme for (DfC) for consideration. provided a sound basis for the GAA’s Government (PfG) priority for Regional target capacity of circa 34,500. Given CASEMENT PARK Sports Stadia. That said it is accepted The current focus of the Board in the the history of issues around these once A fresh planning application for the and recognised widely the lengths context of the significant delay arising contested matters this represented Casement park re-development was to which the GAA have gone during from the former Department for the a very welcome endorsement of the lodged with Belfast City Council public consultation and how they have Environment (DOE) being successfully stadium plan. on 28th February 2017. Less than responded pragmatically to the issues challenged on the previous planning two months later the application raised during that consultation, to application is on ensuring the Furthermore, at the request of the was subsequently ‘called in’ by the which over 5,000 people contributed. necessary funding will be in place emergency services further work Flythrough produced during the GAA and Antrim GAA are actively Department for Infrastructure (DfI) to see through the delivery of the was done in the summer and reported summer by the Stadium Designers preparing the ground to ensure that as it was determined to be a project The planning assessment process stadium. Given the delay it will come on in September from independent Populous was a highlight of the year the new Casement Park will deliver of regional significance. should soon be coming to a close as no surprise to anyone that costs movement consultants (AECOM) with our Ulster Final in Clones and All fully for the city, county, province and with the GAA’s project team having will now be in excess of the initially that the GAA’s plans for dealing Ireland Finals in Hurling and Football community as envisaged. The community consultation period responded to a request for Further projected £77.5m funding envelope with specific emergency based worst showcasing the new look Casement (32 weeks) that preceded the Environmental Information (FEI) and it but ongoing discussions indicate a case scenarios were reasonable and Park to thousands of GAA Supporters. Chairman Tom Daly continues to lead submission of the planning application is anticipated that the outcome of the willingness and commitment from proportionate based on extensive Much work has gone in to securing our Board and during the year retired was unprecedented for a project of application will be announced in Spring both the GAA and from Government analysis which was undertaken. planning representations being made from his considerable duties with the this scale and the application has 2018. However, it remains a concern to deliver on the obligations of funding Work is ongoing with the PSNI and to the planners from GAA members HSE. We record our thanks to him been the subject of some 1500 public that there is currently no Minister agreements and commercial contracts the emergency services testing the and I would ask Counties, Clubs and and wish him well as he splits his new comments and contributions from a (Local or Direct Rule) for the planners to deliver the stadium. resilience of event and emergency members to continue to register their time found between Ballyshannon and dozen statutory consultees in the to make a recommendation to. plans, this work is recognised as support for the project as we move in Belfast striving to deliver the project intervening period. The Ulster Council of the GAA and the exemplary by the Safe Sports to 2018. Let’s have no regrets that the for the GAA in Ulster. The legal position regarding the Project Board remain committed to Grounds Authority and above and GAA voice has been heard on the need The majority of representations made ability of Senior Civil Servants to take the stadium and the four key pillars of beyond what would typically be for a new Casement Park. Our Stadium Project Team deserves are supportive of the GAA’s proposals decisions on regionally significant success, namely: expected at this stage of a stadium thanks for their diligence on the for the site. The changing dynamic planning applications is the matter construction process. I record my The Casement Park stadium must important work during the year and locally is best evidenced by progress of a judicial process on the ARC 21 • Develop and deliver a world class appreciation to Jim Murray and and will be a positive catalyst for the this includes Rory Miskelly, Stephen made with local community and incinerator project, which is due provincial sized stadium in Belfast for Stephen McGeehan who represent Gaels of Ulster but in particular a ‘shot McGeehan and Tim Harkin. This group voluntary sectors, local businesses for hearing next month. It will be the GAA the GAA on the STG group. in the arm’ for Belfast as Ireland's is supported by Oliver Galligan, and and traders on the Andersonstown interesting and potentially relevant • Enhance the local Community that second city. There will of course also Michelle McAleer at PSG and Council Road and other interest groups such for the outcome on the Casement the new Casement Park will serve Aiken PR were successful in securing be significant benefit for the GAA in level. The communications work as the Andersonstown Regeneration Park application but it would be most • Deliver a facility suitable for hosting the PR and Communications Antrim and to this end Ulster GAA are is supported by Paul McGurk and Committee and Gaels for Casement, unfortunate, and even ironic, that Club, County, Provincial and National commission early in 2017 and have particularly appreciative of the support Claire Curran. Geraldine McKavanagh who are lending their support for the given all the delays that the project fixtures continued to work with the project of their County Committee led by Colin continues to serve the Board, the fresh planning application. To this end, has endured that it could be delayed • Contribute to the economic and team in messaging the positive Donnelly, Terry Reilly, Pol MacCana Project Steering Group and the general credit must also be given to the Antrim further by political inactivity when the social development of Belfast and aspects of the project during the and Frankie Quinn. The past year has administration of the project. Her work County Committee and the Casement project itself is politically driven under Ulster year successfully. There is frustration brought resolution to historic issues and attention to detail is outstanding. Park Social Club who are working a PfG commitment. at times that much of this work is around transition arrangements and I thank also Feargal McCormack, Mick together with members and local Gaels During 2017 the work of the undertaken against the backdrop of forward-looking workgroups made up McGuckin and John Cole for their to ensure that the GAA family is having The Ulster Council and the Project GAA members, project team and a downbeat and at times negative of personnel from Croke Park, Ulster ongoing support and advice. its voice heard of the undoubted need Board led by Chairman and Project consultants with the Safety Technical narrative by some media. The 3D

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I wish to acknowledge the contribution Permanent Secretary Ian Maye RIP team remain engaged and we thank This work is key to ensuring that we automatically default to the highest work this placed on host clubs and of Stephen McGeehan, who has sadly passed away. His death was a Managing Director Damian Heron for help our clubs and members create standard in terms of Association policy. Ulster Council staff, who had to process been representing our interests at shock for all who knew him and I had his team’s commitment to the project. and maintain a safe, fun and enjoyable each application, was staggering and a The Department for Communities the privilege of working alongside him environment in which our children and It is my hope that the legislation in sincere debt of gratitude is due to the (DFC) Programme Board level. I wish in the Department for Culture, Arts and SAFEGUARDING & CHILD young people can participate in Gaelic the North can be reviewed and clubs and to Bernie Fox, Kathy Kelly also to acknowledge the significant Leisure (DCAL) for several years. I had PROTECTION Games and Activities. amended to ensure consistency and Paul McKillop who devoted many contributions of our Project Board a very positive meeting with him just 2017 has again been a challenging across both jurisdictions. hours of time and effort to ensure all members, Project Steering Group days before his untimely death and period and a time of change in this VETTING & TRAINING possible safeguards to visiting children. members and to the external I record my condolences and those area of our Governance. Sadly, Pat In line with legal and best practice FÉILE Thanks are also due to the officers representatives from DfC and the of Ulster GAA to his partner, son and Darcy, Cathaoirleach of an Choiste Cód requirements, Association policy The 2017 National John West Féile and host families in clubs, to the Central Procurement Directorate colleagues. I welcome the appointment Eticie agus Dea-chleachtadh, passed requires all those who work with Peile na nÓg was hosted by counties members of an Choiste Cód Eitice agus (CPD) who contribute at those levels. of the new Programme SRO Ian away in July of this year after a short children and young people in Cavan, Fermanagh and Monaghan Dea-Chleachtadh, our County Chairs' Snowden and record my thanks to his battle with illness. During his seven the GAA to be suitably trained and it was a truly wonderful festival and Childrens Officers' and the many I acknowledge the immense support colleagues Jacqueline Fearon, Denise year tenure as Chair, Pat left and appropriately vetted prior to of football as almost 5,000 boys and people who supported them in this offered at Board level and on all Stockman, Andrew Dadley and James an indelible mark on Safeguarding in commencement of position. girls participated across 10 divisions crucial area of work. project aspects by Paraic Duffy during McCauley in the Programme Team for the Association, particularly in Ulster We are encouraged by the number in boys' football and six divisions in his time on the Board. As he is soon their support and partnership on the and we will be forever indebted to of volunteers in our Association in girls' football. It was a joy to behold The National Féile Committee was to depart the Director General's office project. him for his work. Ulster who have completed their as children from across Ireland, Britain brilliantly supported by a Local I thank him specifically for his inputs vetting either through Access NI and the USA were hosted by the three Organising Committee led by Ulster to the Casement Park project where I also wish to thank our two contracted Our Safeguarding team continue to or Garda Vetting, with over 34,000 said counties in a spirit of friendship GAA Vice-President Oliver Galligan and his commitment and support for the teams who remain fully involved and provide advice, support and services through the process to date. Our and sportsmanship. serviced by Jimmy Darragh. project even at its most difficult stage integrated in the Design and Build to our clubs and constituent units basic awareness course participant’s has been unstinting and above and process, namely Mott MacDonald across the province and throughout database continues to grow with There were a number of incidents This committee worked diligently beyond the call of duty. on the Design side and, in particular both jurisdictions to ensure they are over 43,000 members who have where the competitive nature of sport over many months to ensure a to their Belfast Divisional Director compliant with Safeguarding legal and completed this course to date. Our subsumed the spirit and ethos of successful weekend and I thank At DFC there was a significant loss Bill Dowey. On the contracting side best practice requirements and to help suite of Safeguarding training that Féile and the scenes that happened in Oliver, Jimmy and all the committee for during the year when the Deputy the Heron Buckingham (HBJV) them deal with issues as they arise. is available to clubs is a very popular Breffni Park and at Lissan on finals day their sterling efforts. resource that focuses on upskilling and were less than edifying. That said these training those who work specifically isolated incidents should not detract With 252 participating teams it is in this area of work and is vital to from what was a wonderful exhibition unsurprising that there were plenty of ensuring implementation of policies of sport that is a manifestation of the fixtures – 607 to be exact – and that and procedures and dealing with issues GAA at its best. doesn't happen without a lot of effort, is as effective as possible. Féile is a wonderful event and from time and co-ordination so a big thanks the founding of Féile na nGael in 1971 to Jimmy Darragh, Stephen Donnelly CHILDREN FIRST until the present day it has undergone and Niall Muldoon for co-ordinating The implementation of the Children significant transformation. It has this, organising referees and generally First Legislation in the South on however become a victim of its own ensuring that things happened as the 1st December 2017 will require success and has become too big for a smoothly as possible. some changes for our clubs in Cavan, weekend event. Monaghan and Donegal. Ulster GAA The Féile Programme was a mammoth are working with the association at While accepting that the weekend task but Claire Curran left no stone national level to ensure that our clubs has been an integral part of Féile, the unturned in producing a booklet that are informed and resourced to ensure requirements and expectations of will be treasured for many years to they are compliant with this legislation. today's world now requires logistical come by the children, mentors and arrangements that could not have parents who participated in Féile Peile The introduction of this change will been imagined at the outset of the na nÓg 2017. To the host clubs, the now leave us for the first time in festival. Some 3,000 people who were referees, club co-ordinators and indeed the position where Safeguarding hosting visiting children had to be everyone who played a part, I say a legislation is stronger in the South 'cleared' by either the Garda Vetting massive thank you. Without you a than it is in the North, and while we Bureau or Access NI. The amount of successful event on this scale could not

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and would not have happened. This handball, football and ladies football and the members of the Coaching in Ulster. Success should never be KS1 CURRICULUM seek alternative employment (some year it is the turn of Down, Louth and blitz and super games programmes. Committee has been challenged to measured by silverware alone. A good SPORTS PROGRAMME of which was within Ulster GAA) and Meath to host in a new development Our programmes continue to work within National Policy guidelines. sign is the continued growth in interest In this period, we fought hard to retain it was therefore necessary to embark which sees two provinces hosting for develop around the LISPA (Life Long At the same time, they are required in our schools and clubs and we the Key Stage 1 Curriculum Sports on a recruitment drive for 18 new staff the first time. Involvement in Sport and Physical to deliver programmes and games welcome the continued support from Programme. In place for ten years and members and they took up post at the Activity) framework. Programme schedules that are relevant and all stakeholders as we move forward. having secured a major award in 2014, start of December. I wish them well in Looking beyond this year it is time design has specifically targeted meaningful. Good examples of this has we had cross-political support for the their posts. I also extend my thanks to for a major re-think on Féile. The our memberships across the been the success of the Regional and Eugene Young has been working retention of this Programme within our colleagues who have embarked on co-ordination of the weekend spectrum from High Performance to Provincial Hurling Blitzes, the Inter- closely with the Antrim County the Department of Education budget. a new career path. I commend them requires so much time and effort that Performance through to Organised County Academy Programmes and the Committee, the Ard Stiurthoir, Unfortunately budgetary pressures for their contribution to improving one must ask the question does it Activity and Active Living. Celtic Challenge. The excellent working the National Games Development within the department resulted in the lives of children during their time represent value for money. Even with relationships with the Community Committee and the coaching section Ulster GAA being advised in July that working on the Curriculum Sports all the Garda and PSNI checks there The delivery of these programmes is and Marketing Departments allows in Croke Park in relation to the creation the Programme would be terminated Programme and wish them well in their remains a risk that, given the numbers due to the investment by the GAA as Coaching and Games to deliver of a plan for the development of on 31 October 2017. future endeavours. involved, the safety of a child could well as key partners such as Sport NI, key messages such as Concussion gaelic games in Belfast. This exciting be compromised. This is an issue that The Department of Education and the Awareness, Anti-Doping, One Punch proposal is close to finalisation and it Following a concerted campaign – I wish to place on record my sincere that the Association needs to think Department for Communities. Ulster and Live to Play to our players and is expected that details will be formally organised jointly with our colleagues thanks to all those who gave seriously about. GAA continues to be recognised as an volunteers in a professional manner. announced in the near future. It is in the Irish Football Association (IFA) their support to help sustain the excellent vehicle that can be used to vital that gaelic games occupies a who found themselves in a similar Programme. In particular I thank the The past number of years have deliver not only activity but it can be Our Sports Science Officer Kevin greater role in its sporting repertoire situation – the scheme was rescued many schoolteachers and GAA clubs witnessed regional hurling and football used to build social capital through McGuigan has been a key member of of our second city and hopefully the at the eleventh hour as funding was who wrote to The Department of Féile competitions taking place across our volunteers. Learning opportunities staff over the past eight years but he out-workings of the plan, which will found in the October Monitoring Education, to the politicians from all the country on the Saturday of Féile have been provided for Player, Coaches will leave us at the end of the month maximise the use of hubs by engaging Round which enabled the Programme sides who recognised the overall value weekend. Indeed this year the Premier and Referees Academy programmes. to take up a new post in a related field. locally with schools and clubs, coupled to continue until the end of the current of the Programme and to the Head Regional Féile Peile na nÓg (which The opportunity has been extended Kevin has been instrumental in raising with a redeveloped Casement Park will financial year. However given the of the Civil Service David Sterling for was won by Burren who defeated to both male and female participants. the profile of sports science and elite inspire more and more kids to take up timing of the 'rescue package' many of lending a sympathetic ear to both the O'Donovan Rossa, Magherafelt in an Our close working relationships with performance and Ulster GAA and the our great games. our well established and experienced IFA and ourselves and for identifying all Ulster Final) took place in Sligo and Camogie, Ladies Football and Handball counties in the province have derived staff had already taken the decision to easements in other departments other Regional Féiles' took place on is evident given the number of joint great benefit from his expertise. I the same day. Surely there is merit in coaching and games projects and wish him well in his future career. this as a way forward for Féile. County programmes that we have delivered. He has had the opportunity to work winners at different ability levels These learning and participation in an environment where there has could come together for a Provincial/ opportunities are extended through been significant progress, innovation Regional Féile with the respective the excellent relationships with our and development and this will no winners progressing to a National Féile Counties. In particular the work of doubt stand them in good stead. Ryan final where they would be joined by our County Coaching Officers and the Mellon is presently on secondment to overseas units. Such a scenario reduces Games Development Managers and Rugby Players Ireland and I have no the need for overnight stays and the Officers, drive National Programmes doubt that the players he is currently bureaucracy that accompanies this and such as Academy Programmes, GAA working with will benefit from his reduces the burden on organisers and Coaching Awards, the ever increasing vast experience, both as a member of referees in having to schedule so many popular Cúl Camps, Super Games staff of Ulster GAA and as a footballer games over the course of a weekend. Centres and the 5 Star Challenge. who has played at the highest level. He will no doubt learn from his time COACHING AND GAMES Coaching and Games staff are in this new working environment and DEVELOPMENT passionate about what they do. I trust that he will bring some of his A wide and varied programme has They are challenged to ensure that new found learning back to Ulster GAA been presented in the past year with our volunteers inform what we do when he returns later in the year. clear focus on disability, targeting and how well we do it. The Provincial The continued commitment of our social need, female participation Coaching and Games Committee volunteers in the support of our and participation levels in hurling, under the stewardship of PJ McGowan programmes is central to the success

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which allowed additional money to Ulster clubs excelled in both finals particular thanks to Ailish McEntee, 700 teams across more than 70 such as some charities, and to offer overseen the production of an updated be secured for the Department of with four Scór Na nÓg and three Scór Danny McLernon, Paula Magee, Bronagh competitions in hurling and football. some meaningful assistance should Public Affairs information brochure and Education. Sinsir titles coming to the province. In Lennon, Geraldine McKavanagh and They are assisted in the organisation of it be deemed appropriate to proceed attended the NI Local Govt Association Scór Na nÓg the national titles were Claire Curran for their many hours of fixtures by Ulster GAA's Niall Muldoon with the new guidelines. conference in October. They also As we move forward to 2018, the key won by St. Cillian’s, Whitecross (Ceili hard work and commitment to the and I thank him, the entire committee played a key role in the organisation is to sustain the work at KS1 In schools Dancing), St. Patrick’s, Donaghmore staging of both Finals. of Ulster Schools and the teachers ULSTER HANDBALL of Ulster GAA's Engagement Forum in and clubs. This is the future of our (Instrumental Music), Niamh and fixture co-ordinators for each of Comhairle Uladh found it necessary to Armagh City Hotel in November. Association and the young children at McDowell, St. Mary’s, Glasdrumman Participating figures from across the numerous competition groups, review the circumstances surrounding Ulster GAA, in partnership with this stage need high quality coaching (Solo Singing) and Naomh Columba Ireland demonstrate that vastly more for their unstinting efforts in promoting the Annual General Meeting of Ulster Ulster Rugby and the Irish FA, have and experiences. There is an ever (Question Time), while the Scor Sinsir clubs from Ulster participate in Scór such worthwhile games, most of which Handball which was held in Kelly’s secured funding through the Peace ending need to reassess and strive winners were Gweedore (Leiru), than any other province. This year fail to get the true recognition Inn, Garvaghey in January of last year. IV European funding programme to keep it simple for our volunteers. Clonduff (Ballad Group) and Omagh, some 200 of the clubs in Ulster took they deserve. The review team of Oliver Galligan, with a project entitled "Sport At the same time, we are challenged St. Enda’s, (Set Dancing). A notable part in Scór Na nÓg, while over 140 Michael Geoghegan and myself found Uniting Communities". This four-year to provide quality experiences for feature of the Gweedore success was participated in Scór Sinsir (excluding Late last year the Department for that the AGM had not been undertaken programme will use sport as a vehicle our young people and to offer a that their act was conducted entirely in the table quiz). These are excellent Infrastructure in the north announced in accordance with the Handball to "Build Positive Relations" as well as meaningful programme of games for the Irish language. A big well done to figures and I commend all those who proposals which will require “anyone Constitution and a new AGM was developing capacity within our club all abilities. them and all the winners from Ulster. foster the tradition of Scór on the who is paid while driving, or is driving arranged for early April. units. The programme will deliver a I wish to thank the National Scór province and thank them for their a minibus as a consequence of their series of joint activities in partnership SCÓR Committee for selecting Ulster to ongoing efforts. employment, cannot be regarded The officer team are now working with Ulster Rugby and IFA and also For the first time since 2013, when Derry host the 2017 finals and I know that as a volunteer and must have a D1 with the full support of Ulster GAA, deliver GAA specific "Taster sessions" celebrated its ‘City of Culture’, Ulster your faith in us to deliver was well ULSTER SCHOOLS (minibus driving) licence". This is a with the Games and Coaching and and "Getting to know the GAA" hosted the All-Ireland finals in both justified. I wish to thank my colleagues Once again Ulster Schools under the major departure from the current Public Relations Section in particular presentations. Scór Na nÓg and Scór Sinsir. Belfast’s in Ulster GAA and the Antrim County expert leadership of Jimmy Smyth position which allows regular car providing ongoing assistance and Waterfront Hall was the venue for both Committee who worked closely (Chair) and Seamus Woods (Secretary) licence holders to drive minibuses in advice. Additionally, meetings of the The Multi Sport Partnership continue events and they showcased all that is with the National Committee in the have organised a cadre of games this situation. While in no way wishing Ulster Handball Council are now held to deliver targets associated with the great in the cultural life of the GAA. organisation of both events, with catering for 138 schools and some to compromise the safety of anyone, on the premises of Ulster GAA in DfC funded programme, and also the impact of this change will put Armagh. in discussions are involved with the severe pressure on already challenging Department of Justice in promoting a school budgets. As well as requiring It was a successful year on the courts campaign to raise awareness around the full D1 Minibus drivers will now also with Charly Shanks taking pride of Domestic Violence. need to obtain the Driver Certificate place in winning the All-Ireland 40 x of Professional Competence which will 20 men's singles title, with the doubles Ulster GAA has also created a place even further costs on schools. title going to well renowned Cavan duo partnership with the Belfast Giants Paul Brady and Michael Finnegan. I Ice Hockey team and has explored the Many schools rely on the use of extend my congratulations to them all. links between Hurling and Ice Hockey. minibuses for their curricular and Part of this engagement surrounded extra-curricular activities and I fear CLUB AND COMMUNITY the "Friendship Four" college Ice that this new requirement could have DEVELOPMENT Hockey tournament where all GAA an adverse effect on our games in both The Club and Community clubs in Ulster were offered free tickets the primary and post-primary sectors. Development Department lead the for young club members to attend While I understand that this is an EU way in engagement with external the ice hockey games and the college Directive that has existed for a period organisations in the wider community players were offered an opportunity to of time, it is somewhat ironic that it is as well as our internal club units. It is try out hurling. being introduced at a time when imperative that Ulster GAA creates and we’re about to leave the EU. I ask maintains links with a range of external Government departments, both north the Department not to proceed with agencies and organisations to highlight and south, provide advice for Clubs these measures at this time to allow the good work that is currently on Governance and Funding and one for further discussions to ascertain ongoing, but also to identify new ways of the highlights was the successful what the consequences will be for of partnership working in the future. funding applications received by schools and other affected bodies, The Community Department has clubs through the 2017 Sports Capital

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• Level 1, Club Officer Development Coca Cola Fund to deliver a Young July across four three-day camps in Programme: This training programme Leaders Programme and this will take Belfast. Over 200 young people from was held on a regional basis in place in Summer 2018. all backgrounds participated in the four different venues in January, camps, many playing Gaelic games for 214 volunteers attended training DEPARTMENT FOR the first time. The fortnight culminated delivered in Bessbrook, Magherafelt, COMMUNITIES PROGRAMME in a Flagship event at Girdwood Clones and Ballybofey. Our working partnership alongside Community Hub on 28th July. Ulster Irish Football Association and Ulster GAA coaching staff delivered coaching The training provided club officers with Rugby has continued in 2017 through at other GO3H events through-out the all essential information for the year the Department for Communities year, an important aspect of the cross- ahead. In 2017, Ulster GAA identified funded Programme ‘Sport: A Home for community work being undertaken by four Key Areas of work to deliver Lifelong Volunteering’. Through this Ulster GAA. on based on feedback provided in Programme a great amount of joint previous years and issues that arose work has been undertaken to promote CÚCHULAINN INITIATIVE in 2016. Workshops focused on the volunteerism, build capacity and The annual Ulster GAA Cúchulainn Cup areas of Club Facility Management, enhance community relations. Club took place at the Meadowbank Sports Health and Wellbeing, Volunteering members from both codes have come Arena on Wednesday 15th March 2017. and Funding. together to build knowledge across Magherafelt Cúchulainns, Banbridge a number of related themes. The Cúchulainns, Dungannon Cúchulainns • Level 2, Elevate Award: Following the diversity of knowledge across the three and Ballymena Cúchulainns were the success of the Elevate Award in 2016 organisations will undoubtedly bear participating teams. Schools were it was delivered once again in 2017. fruit for each as the learning is put into given “GAA Taster Sessions” in the Ten Clubs were selected to participate practice at Club level. basic skills of Gaelic Football and in training across four weekends in Hurling, with over 150 pupils getting February and March. The Multi Sport Volunteering Forum an opportunity to sample what the Programme. 24 out of the 33 clubs in Club Maith Status. A new introduction engage with the programme. A Club ‘Stay in the Game – Promoting GAA has to offer. “Getting to Know Donegal, Cavan and Monaghan that to the scheme in 2017 was an online Development Plan is a vital document This programme offered clubs and Lifelong Wellbeing in Sport’ was held the GAA” presentations were delivered attended the Ulster GAA advice clinics function being provided for clubs to in any club and as such the Club individuals the opportunity to develop in the Athletic Grounds, Armagh on to over 400 pupils promoting greater were successful in acquiring funding. upload their evidence. It is hoped Planning Programme will continue to knowledge and capacity across eight Thursday 31st August 2017. The aim understanding and respect for other that this will encourage more clubs be an important area of work in 2018. key areas; Leadership, Management, of the forum was to bring together cultures; a key aim of the Cúchulainn CLUB MAITH to become accredited and this been Club Planning, Marketing, Financial sports volunteers from football, rugby Cup programme. Banbridge Club Maith continues to be the evident with 53 clubs registering an VOLUNTEER DEVELOPMENT Management, Fundraising, Capital and GAA to explore how to keep Cúchulainns made-up of St Patrick’s recognised brand for club excellence interest since November. Club Officer Training Programme was Projects and Partnerships. Experienced older volunteers active in their clubs. College, Banbridge High School and among GAA clubs in Ulster. Three rolled out for its eighth consecutive volunteers from across the province The Forum heard from a number of Newbridge Integrated College were clubs have been accredited in 2017, all CLUB PLANNING year in 2017 to help build capacity for acted as tutors for this programme, agencies who provided an overview crowned champions and were chosen of which received Gold awards – they The Club Planning Programme providing club officers with essential sharing their experiences in relevant of health programmes which can be to travel to London to compete in the were Roslea Shamrocks (Fermanagh), continues to be a key process in information and to provide the areas of work. New areas of volunteer implemented in sports clubs. It also All Britain Competition in July. O'Donovan Rossa, Magherafelt (Derry) enabling clubs to better prepare opportunity for a discussion forum recognition and development have heard at first hand from local sports and St. Joseph's, Ballycran (Down)- themselves for the future. The within the Association. been identified, such as the inaugural clubs who are leading the way in The team trained in earnest for the and I extend my congratulations programme has been reviewed at Provincial Youth Forum in November, this area. competition, and visited London in July to them. The Club Maith website National Level and going forward ENTRY LEVEL, CLUB where young people from the nine while also visiting Croke Park in order continues be an excellent online there will be a focus on three year OFFICER INDUCTION AWARD counties came together to discuss GAME OF THREE HALVES to learn more about our Association. resource to clubs compiling their Club development plans rather than 150 volunteers from across all nine GAA topics and receive some Ulster GAA has delivered Game In London, competing at the U16 Maith Portfolios, and indeed to any the previous 5 year model. This counties attended this training on information and guidance on Health of Three Halves (GO3H) events as level, the Magherafelt Cúchulainns club with a club development query. programme is rolled-out through Saturday 7th January in Holy Trinity and Wellbeing and Time Management. and when required, and remain as faced teams from Gloucestershire, Training and courses developed by the Ulster GAA in conjunction with County College, Cookstown. This event Our partnership with Translink rewards partners in the Sport for Change Herefordshire, Lancashire, London, Community Department are placed on Development Officers. A bank of provided role specific training for a Young Volunteer of the Month and Working Group, who are responsible Warwickshire and Yorkshire. Despite the site to keep club officials abreast Club Planners attended training in club officers new to their role. this has proven extremely popular. An for the delivery of GO3H events. The being a team made-up of players of new initiatives. Since its inception in Croke Park in October, and are on- Eight workshops were held as part of exciting development has been the Belfast Interface Games are the main who had little experience playing 2007, 61 clubs have now been achieved hand to assist with clubs wishing to this session: acquisition of funding through the programme in this regard, held during Gaelic games. They represented

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themselves with distinction showing HEALTH AND WELLBEING Ulster, county and indeed club level all NATIONAL HEALTH AND presentation will be widely available • St Marys, Convoy GAA Club some incredible skills, passion, and Ulster GAA’s Health & Wellbeing face. It is hoped that as the benefits of WELLBEING COMMITTEE from early 2018. (Donegal) team-work. They narrowly missed Committee continues to operate and health and wellbeing become realised Ulster GAA continue to be represented • Naomh Muire, Kincasslagh out on a semi-final spot, coming-up deliver at a high level. The Committee, in our clubs, which will take some time, on this Committee and are heavily HEALTHY CLUB PROGRAMME GAA Club against club teams who have had years under the leadership of Cathal Hand, that this challenge will be diminished. involved in shaping the direction of Phase II of the Healthy Club (Donegal) of experience playing together. The have performed a valuable service in health and wellbeing through-out the Programme began in November real value of such an experience was shaping the way forward for health I wish to thank our nine County Health GAA. Two important areas of work 2016, and is going from strength- Phase III of the Healthy Club Project profoundly seen on the young men, and wellbeing within Ulster GAA; and Wellbeing Chairpersons and also in 2017 have been Critical Incident to-strength. In total 17 clubs across will begin in January 2018, when 150 as they forged meaningful and lasting influencing Ulster GAA campaigns, Ciaran McLaughlin who offers great Response Planning, and Gambling Ulster are involved, and each county clubs will become involved in the friendships. and supporting their roll-out in support as Chairperson of the National Awareness. A Critical Incident represented. Through this programme project. It is hoped that even more counties. Health & Wellbeing Committee. It Response Plan (CIRP) has been clubs undertake a range of health Ulster clubs will become involved Praise must go to the school-teachers is also worth noting the invaluable devised to help clubs and counties to and wellbeing activities, from smoke- given the large amounts of health and who accompanied their pupils, and All nine County Health & Wellbeing support our County Health & Wellbeing respond to situations which overwhelm free club grounds, Couch to 5k wellbeing activity already ongoing staff from Ulster GAA who made it Committees are established and Committees have been to clubs who the club’s / county’s natural ability to Programmes, social initiative activities, in our clubs. The Healthy Club Portal possible for the young men to become embedded, to varying degrees, in have encountered critical incidents respond. The CIRP aims to: to name a few. The 17 Ulster Healthy has been upgraded with clubs finding involved in the experience. I also thank core county activity. A sustained and in the past year. Their diligence and 1. Promote a sense of safety Clubs are as follows: it much easier to report back to the Diarmaid Marsden, Fionntan O'Dowd committed effort is required on the care shown to the families, clubs, 2. Promote a sense of calm National Co-ordinator. It is hoped that and Garreth Thornton for their efforts part of all counties in order to fully and communities affected have been 3. Promote a sense of self-efficacy • An Caisleán Glas, Cumann Naomh Phase IV of the project will be open in helping to prepare the team and realise the potential the health and invaluable at the hardest of times. I (ability to cope) Padraig GAA Club for all clubs to achieve Healthy Club making the weekend such an enjoyable wellbeing agenda can make to our also wish to place on record my sincere 4. Promote connectedness (Tyrone) status, with criteria for this currently experience for all. I am also extremely clubs and communities. Health and thanks to Ulster GAA's Health and 5. Promote hope • Omagh, St. Enda's GAA Club being agreed by the National Healthy grateful to The Executive Office Wellbeing should not be considered Wellbeing Manager Maura McMenamin (Tyrone) Club Project Team. for their continued support for this as “additional” to GAA activity but for her endless efforts in promoting A presentation and training for Critical • Castleblayney Faughs GAA Club project which is an integral part of our rather a core activity of our units. This this most valuable of initiatives. Incident Response Planning (CIRP) (Monaghan) ULSTER GAA HEALTH AND outreach programme. is a challenge which the Health and has been developed and delivered • Derrygonnelly Harps GAA Club WELLBEING PROGRAMMES Wellbeing Committees at national, to County Health & Wellbeing (Fermanagh) MENTAL HEALTH Chairpersons in November; the aim • Erne Gaels GAC Belleek GAA Club 2017 has been a year in which Ulster being that all GAA units develop and (Fermanagh) GAA have made great strides around adopt a CIRP and training will be made • Cumann Chluain Daimh GAA Club the area of mental health. AWARE were available in counties in early 2018. (Down) named as Ulster GAA Charity Partner • St. Peter’s Warrenpoint GAA Club of the year and have been instrumental Gambling Awareness has been on (Down) in assisting us in a number of the agenda of the National Health & • St. John’s Drumnaquoile GAA Club initiatives. Most notably 2017 has seen Wellbeing Committee for a number (Down) a lot of work in developing the Ulster of years. 2016 figures from the GPA • Michael Davitt GAA Club GAA MindFit Programme which aims counselling service highlights gambling (Derry) to develop resilience and emotional addiction as the number one area • Killygarry GAA Club intelligence in young people. This links of help-seeking by its members. (Cavan) with the move to make Player Welfare Research, albeit limited for the island • Cavan Gaels GAA Club Officers available in each county, and of Ireland, shows a worrying trend in (Cavan) that these officers should be placed relation to problem gambling. National • St Joseph’s Glenavy GAA Club on the County Health & Wellbeing Community Health Manager made (Antrim) Committees in order to maximise the a presentation to 2017 Congress on • St. Marys Rasharkin GAA Club potential of this role. Thanks to funding the issue, and the National Health & (Antrim) from the Public Health Agency a Wellbeing Committee have sought • Naomh Mochua Derrynoose programme of MindFit will be delivered support from experts in developing GAA Club to counties in early 2018. a presentation on the area of (Armagh) gambling awareness. Versions of this • Culloville Blues GAA Club TAKE 5 STEPS TO WELLBEING have been delivered at the Tyrone (Armagh) Ulster GAA were successful in drawing Health & Wellbeing Seminar and the down funding from the Public Health

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Agency to develop a social media LIVE TO PLAY with a busy bank holiday weekend on GAA staff assisted Mid Ulster District Provincial Council of Britain. In a further manifestation of the campaign based on the “5 Steps The Primary School Road Safety our roads with Monaghan, Armagh Council with “Restart a Heart Day” on As referred to earlier in my report, strong links between Ulster GAA to Wellbeing” model. This initiative Programme – the Live To Play Oscars and Tyrone all playing in Croke Park. Monday 16th October 2017. Ulster GAA was delighted to once and the Canadian County Board, the encourages people to look after their was held on Friday 19th May in Thanks to the organisers for including again lend their support to the All Provincial President and I attended mental health by partaking in the 5 Tyrone GAA Centre at Garvaghey. The us in their plans and to Monaghan PSNI - Britain Competition by sending a the 2016 (held in February 2017 when steps to wellbeing everyday. Programme aimed to raise awareness GAA, Armagh GAA, and Tyrone GAA ONE PUNCH CAMPAIGN cross-community team to participate it was postponed from December The five steps to wellbeing include: of road safety issues with primary for their support in promoting our Live Ulster GAA have partnered with in the All Britain Competition. 2016 as a mark of respect for the late 1. Connect; school children. Schools were asked to To Play campaign. the PSNI to develop a “One Punch Eugene Young and Roger Keenan Danny Murphy) and 2017 Canadian 2. Be active; develop a Demonstration of Learning Can Kill” campaign aimed mainly at delivered a highly successful hybrid Conventions in Toronto, while 3. Take notice; short film evidencing how primary DDSR young males, advising them about coaching course across Foundation, personnel from Ulster GAA will deliver 4. Keep learning; schools have continued to use the The ‘Drink, Drugs, and Sausage-rolls’ responsible behaviour both on Level One and Level Two categories a Level One Coaching Course to 5. Give. excellent Ulster GAA Live To Play campaign is for third-level students and off the pitch in relation to the in London in November and it has Canadian coaches with Foundation Kidszone, which is available from the advising them about health and consequences of one punch. Plans been well received by those who and Foundation Tutor qualifications Ulster GAA's Mental Health Ulster GAA website. After a good lifestyle issues that are particularly are afoot to have the hour-long attended, who were drawn from in April. Ulster GAA will also deliver a Ambassadors Mickey Harte, Drew response from schools six schools relevant to students, possibly living workshop delivered to clubs in each of right across Britain. Referees Tutor Programme for existing Wylie, Geraldine McLaughlin, Aoife were selected as finalists, namely; away from home for the first time. our counties in early 2018. A number and new referees early in 2018. Ní Chaiside, and Ronan McNamee St Patrick's & St Joseph's, Glenullin/ The campaign was rolled-out at of clubs in Derry have already been This year Ulster GAA once again engaged enthusiastically with the Garvagh; St Teresa's, Belfast; St Freshers Fayres in UU Coleraine, UU involved in the programme, which has supported the GAA in Canada through SPORT NI programme and added greatly to its Joseph's, Galbally; St Ita's, Belfast; St Jordanstown, UU Magee, Queen’s been very well-received. the provision of equipment and by Ulster GAA was successful in securing worth. The social media campaign Malachy's Armagh and Christ the King, University, St. Mary’s College, and sending referees to their Toronto and funding of £882,794 for the period was launched in July 2017, with Drumaness. St Patrick's & St Joseph's, Belfast Metropolitan College. AIR AMBULANCE Eastern Divisional Finals in hurling 2017-21 from Sport NI under their three games in the Ulster Senior Glenullin/Garvagh ran-out overall During the year Ulster GAA were and football. Additionally, and for the Sporting Clubs Programme. This Football Championship being used winners and were rewarded with an HEART START pleased to lend their support to the first time, a referee from the province funding which secures seven full or as opportunities to promote the O’Neills voucher for their school. Ulster GAA staff availed of refresher recently launched Air Ambulance was appointed to referee the Western part-time posts (including two for campaign to a wide audience. Clubs Live To Play was well received at a training in the summer, enabling in the north. Former President of Divisional Finals which took place in Ulster Ladies GAA) is the highest and Counties are encouraged to road safety event in Monaghan in early them to deliver Heartstart training both the GAA at national level and Calgary. Unfortunately the competition award for any of the successful 21 use the videos which are available August. Hosted by McCaughey's 24- as and when required. Trained tutors the Ulster Council Peter Quinn sits had to be curtailed due to the tragic sports in this Programme and it reflects on Ulster GAA’s health and hour Service Station, Broomfiel, The in St Mary’s Rasharkin also delivered on the Air Ambulance Board and death of young Vancouver Harps the level of grassroots work that is wellbeing microsite. Road Safety Authority and Monaghan training over a number of weeks to given the broad base of the GAA in player David Gavin (from Breaffy in undertaken by us in the promotion of County Council this event coincided club and community members. Ulster Ulster, and especially our strength County Mayo) and we express our gaelic games. Although we were not in rural areas, there is a natural deepest sympathy to his family, successful in securing funding for all of connection between the GAA and the team-mates and his many friends. the posts we applied for, we welcome Air Ambulance and this worthy and this recognition of our work by Sport progressive development is deserving Following a successful pilot in Ottawa, NI. of our support. There are currently St. Mary's University College in Belfast two air ambulance helicopters, based has now agreed to send a number of We were ineligible to apply for at Enniskillen and The Maze/Long placement students to coach in schools funding to the Sporting Winners Kesh, and they serve not only the six in Canada over a six weeks period as Programme due to criteria which northern counties but neighbouring part of their teacher training module. excluded applications from bodies counties south of the border. As well as giving the children a taster whose sports didn't have a World in gaelic games they will train up Championship, or which were not TWINNING ARRANGEMENTS coaches and teachers and help develop included in the schedules for Olympic, Last February the GAA centrally and its links between school and local club(s), Paralympic or Commonwealth Games. overseas units agreed that these units where none already exist. When it became known that Cricket could be best served moving forward It is an exciting development and one Ireland, The Irish Football Association by continuing to build on the existing which Ulster GAA hopes will help build and Ulster Rugby did apply but were twinning programme with provincial a strong foundation for the future unsuccessful in their bids for funding councils. Ulster GAA continues to have development of gaelic games to the Sporting Winners Programme productive partnerships with both in Canada. the four sports formed an alliance to the Canadian County Board and the challenge the policy and process of

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representatives and officials from both the day to day running of their already working together in a co- will exist on the island of Ireland central and local government. respective playing codes but the Club ordinated and integrated manner. post March 2019 we know there will The key note speaker was Professor Executive Committee should have be repercussions but we are still Deirdre Heenan who enlightened the overall authority for governance, with DATA PROTECTION unclear as to their nature and extent. audience with her impressions of each code appropriately represented In May of this year significant changes The ‘divorce’ negotiations are taking the GAA from a neutral perspective on the Club Executive Committee. in Data Protection legislation will place against a backdrop of minority and she stressed the importance Financial affairs should be the domain come into effect across the European governments in both London and of partnership working. This event, for the Executive Committee, though Union. The General Data Protection Dublin and no government at all in one year into our four-year strategy, each unit should benefit from co- Regulations (GDPR) will bring about Belfast, so needless to say things are allowed the organisation to take ordinated fundraising activities, while changes to the law which will affect far from going smoothly. But what may stock of how it is performing against Facility allocation should be shared the ways in which members’ personal it all mean for the GAA? its key goals and the feedback and fairly across all codes. data can be collated and used for GAA The weakening of sterling may have observations of the delegates will purposes. The changes will impact on impacted on attendances at some help inform our approach to the major This model is already the case across every unit of the Association. Ulster games and has undoubtedly led to challenges ahead. many clubs in Ulster and at a provincial GAA has established a small working increased running costs for clubs and level we try as far as possible to play group to examine the implications counties in the north. In the event of As part of our good governance our part in helping to promote both of the new legislative requirements industries and manufacturing plants principles two independent board the Camogie and Ladies Football for GAA units and the issue has been closing or moving elsewhere there will members were appointed to the codes. However the formal adoption highlighted in the GAA Monthly be significant economic implications a government funded programme a Player Pathway Programme which Management Board of Comhairle of these Guidelines are an important Newsletter. and this could potentially result in which failed to provide funding to four will be launched this year and from Uladh during the past year. In the development in the future direction young people emigrating elsewhere in of the leading sports in the country. which all Ulster counties can benefit. short time they have been with us of the Association and if formal BREXIT search of employment. It seems strange that in terms of the Anne Garvey and Dr David Hassan integration is ever proposed down Since the June 2016 referendum much combined level of funding for both GOVERNANCE have made an invaluable contribution the line, then a lot of the spadework has been written about the potential A ‘hard border’ would have serious programmes that Ulster GAA is sixth In 2017 the GAA published a to the work of the Council and the has already been undertaken as GAA impact of Brexit across Ireland. Given consequences for the GAA. Many of place overall, having received less Governance Guide to cover all units oversight and scrutiny they bring members, both male and female, are that a European Union land border us will be familiar with the days of than 50% of the funding awarded to of the Association. There is no doubt to our affairs is both welcome and the most successful sport (hockey) that the GAA is well run at all levels refreshing. I wish them well for the and behind sports such as canoeing. and this guide sets out in clear terms remainder of their tenure. The position is even worse for rugby a set of standards for the conduct of and cricket, not to mention the Irish our affairs which will protect both the ONE CLUB GUIDELINES Football Association who received no Association generally and in particular In April 2017 the Ard Stuirthoir and funding at all from either programme. the countless numbers of officials his counterparts in the Camogie and volunteers who serve this Association and Ladies Gaelic Football Just recently we have been advised by great organisation. Association signed-off on ‘One Club Sport NI that they are unable to re-visit Guidelines’ to enable best practice the Sporting Winners allocations but Under the governance principles in clubs which have units competing they are keen to work with us moving of Leadership, Exercising Control, in two or more of these codes. While forward in relation to future funding Transparency & Accountability, recognising the respective entities opportunities. While I welcome the Operating Effectively and Behaving of each of the three codes, these latter development, as a collective the With Integrity the guide gives practical guidelines chart a practical path four sports are continuing to look at advice to enable all units to operate at forward for clubs. In the absence potential avenues to right what we the highest standards and to ensure of formal integration the One Club regard as a flawed application process that all officers understand their roles approach to the promotion and playing for Sporting Winners. One positive and the expectations that fall therein. of Gaelic Games at adult and juvenile development has been the decision In November Ulster GAA held a levels, this document provides practical of Sport NI to once again give Ulster half-day Stakeholder Engagement guidance in catering for the entire GAA GAA access to the Sports Institute workshop which was attended by over family in an integrated manner. and Eugene Young and his team are 130 people from a range of sporting, The Guidelines allow for separate currently working with the Institute on cultural and statutory organisations, committees within the club to manage north and south, and elected

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also proved to be a highly effective Resources and Business Development of gratitude. At a time when child Chair of the Provincial Hurling and Section. She is a diligent, conscientious protection – and rightly so – receives Integration Committees. and committed worker and is at the ever increasing prominence we are core of many of our key policy issues. fortunate to have a person of the Ciaran McLaughlin combines his She leads her equally committed team calibre and experience of Bernie to Treasurer role with that of Chair of by example. Dr Eugene Young leads oversee this important area of work. the National Health and Wellbeing an impressive Coaching and Games No words of thanks from me will Committee. His diligent oversight of Development team which is in reality adequately pay tribute to the work and Ulster GAA’s financial affairs ensures our core business area and under dedication of Geraldine McKavanagh. that we strive for best practice and his leadership the coaching staff at Her loyalty, commitment and due diligence in our operational Ulster GAA have rightly earned the trustworthiness to me over the past affairs and his advice is highly valued. reputation as being amongst the best year has been immense and I am truly Public Relations Officer Michael there are around. While we have been appreciative. No one in Ulster GAA Geoghegan continues to positively all frustrated by the long drawn out circles felt the loss of Danny more promote our wide remit of affairs and saga that is Casement Park, Stephen than Geraldine, yet from day one is our main point of contact with the McGeehan has remained steadfast she treated me as if I’d worked with media. Michael deals with them in a throughout and while much of his work her for a lifetime and she has been fair and professional manner and is is unseen I can assure all that he has a tremendous help and guidance to long queues at the border and any and the Communities Minister was ethos, 23 'perceived' to be neutral and well respected in media circles. His left no stone unturned as we strive me in my first year in post. I thank return to that would have significant accompanied by First Minister Arlene just nine 'perceived' to be from the task can at times be onerous and in for a positive outcome to our current her sincerely. consequences for the GAA, even with Foster for the announcement. While Catholic community. Just two GAA the past year Ulster GAA has had to planning application. The work of the a continued Common Travel Area. the launch took place at an Orange Hall clubs were successful. While accepting deal with some challenging media Community Development team led by PÁRAIC DUFFY However the deal agreed last month the department made clear from the that the department failed to conduct issues. Michael at all times has ensured Diarmaid Marsden has rightly received In October Ard Stuirthoir Páraic Duffy between the British Government and outset that applications were welcome an equality screening exercise prior to that our voice is heard and that our many plaudits over the past year. announced that he intends to step the European Commission appears from across the entire spectrum of the launch of the 'pilot' was unusual, position is reflected in both press Community is the cornerstone of the down from his position at the end of to rule this out as it provides for “full community life. it seems perverse that only two clubs and broadcast mediums.Ulster GAA GAA and so many strands of the work March. During his ten years as Director alignment with those rules of the from the largest community based is well served by its sub-committees of this division of Ulster GAA is making General Páraic has been a man of Internal Market and the Customs Union The department claimed that priority sporting organisation in the country and I sincerely thank the membership a meaningful contribution to the lives vision and integrity who has led from which, now or in the future, support would be given to organisations that should be successful. While in no of all of these committees for their of many people. the front and his imprint is firmly North-South co-operation, the all- had previously attracted little or no way questioning the validity of the efforts and commitment to our cause. on all of the major reforms that the island economy and the protection public funding and initially set aside successful applicants, the GAA has In particular I thank the Chair and Stephen Donnelly has the demanding Association has undergone in the past of the 1998 Agreement.” Just how some £500,000 for the scheme. a right to a plausible explanation as Secretaries for their time and devotion. task of co-ordinating the entire decade. A former GAA Player Welfare this will be achieved if the British There was huge interest and when the to why their units had a less than 4% Each and every one of you are making Ulster GAA fixtures programme Manager, this issue has remained close Government proceed with their pledge successful applicants were announced success rate under the pilot. a vital and valued contribution. If I but thanks to his trusting hand and to his chest during his time as Ard to leave both the Single Market and the in early 2017 the award total had risen may be forgiven can I make special sound understanding of GAA affairs Stuirthoir there were numerous reports Customs Union remains something of to £1.9m, almost quadrupling the initial PROVINCIAL COUNCIL reference to the Hearings Committee throughout the province he manages on fixtures published and three reports a mystery but the unrestricted passage budget. This figure is significant as I am indebted to the outstanding that met on no fewer that 12 occasions to produce a series of games which is on player welfare, culminating with the of people on the island of Ireland had it exceeded £2m approval would contribution made to the GAA in Ulster during the past year and were also fair and balanced, yet takes account 2015 'Player Overtraining and Burnout, is absolutely critical from a GAA needed to have been sought from by our Provincial Council members. involved in three cases to the Central of the particular circumstances of and the GAA Fixtures Calendar' Report perspective. The year ahead will be a the Department of Finance, which at Our President Michael Hasson gives Appeals Committee and two to the competing teams. He is a tremendous which was published in November critical one. the time was headed up by Sinn Fein selflessly of his time and travels many Disputes Resolution Authority.The asset to Ulster GAA. 2015. Páraic recognised the role that Minister Máirtin O Muilleoir. miles in the cause of Ulster GAA. He duty of implementing the policy of the non terrestial television sector COMMUNITY HALLS SCHEME is a steady hand at the head of our Ulster GAA largely rests with my senior Kathy Kelly is the Servicing Officer could play in the ongoing promotion In the autumn of 2016 Communities Eyebrows were raised when the list of affairs and his contributions are always staff and their teams. Ulster GAA are for both Coiste Bainisti and Senior and brand recognition of gaelic games Minister Paul Givan launched a 'pilot' successful applicants were announced. meaningful and insightful. privileged to have in their midst many Staff and her administrative skills and and he was a key figure in introducing scheme which allowed for grants of In all 90 groups/organisations were quality people and I thank all our staff attention to detail are apparent for all new players to the broadcast table, up to £25,000 for refurbishment of successful and, a fact publicly admitted Vice-Chairman Oliver Galligan for their ongoing efforts. to see. Safeguarding Manager Bernie even though it has and continues to halls which served as a community by the department, there was a lack emphasised his leadership qualities Fox performs a vital role on behalf of cause irritation in some GAA circles hub. The announcement of the scheme of balance in the allocations with 58 as Chair of the Féile Peile na nÓg Michelle McAleer has the demanding all the GAA clubs in Ulster and we all and amongst RTE pundits, who are not took place at Salterstown Orange Hall 'perceived' to be from the Protestant Organising Committee and he has role of heading up our Finance, Human owe her and her team a huge debt neutral in the debate.

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The changes to the hurling and message reaches as wide an audience now consume their media provides stretches far and beyond the avid GAA behind to two early goals in both the well deserved recognition, while football championships which will as possible and in the past year alone increasing challenges for the traditional supporter. semi-final and final the team showed Monaghan's Niall Moyna picked up be introduced on a pilot basis in the number of followers to the Ulster print media and it was disappointing character and resolve of the highest the Education Award for his work in 2018 are testament to his vision GAA twitter account grew by 16% to when the Observer Newspaper Group Ulster GAA's Public Relations Officer calibre and their victory over a star the third level sector. There was also and the condensed inter-county over 61,000, while our Facebook fans ceased publication in the spring of Michael Geoghegan works tirelessly studded UCD team in the final was widespread acclaim when the famous calendar is predicated on his genuine increased to over 37,000 which is an 2017 with the loss of 11 titles. For many for the GAA in the province and his truly incredible. McGuigan family from Ardboe received desire to provide a more meaningful increase of 12% from the previous year. years this newspaper chain served cordial manner has ensured that our The Dermot Earley Family Award. programme of games for the club After ten years as Marketing, Design the gaels of Ulster with detailed and relationships with the media are by A huge congratulations goes out to player. and Print Consultants for Ulster informative GAA coverage and their and large very positive. His attitude is Paddy Tally and his team on achieving OBITUARIES Páraic has made a valuable and GAA, Lairdesign decided to move to demise is a significant loss to the that you ''work' with the media, rather such a memorable victory as their Over the past year we bade a sad lasting contribution to Cumann pastures new. Over the last decade market. When I was growing up 'The than 'deal' with the media and this is efforts ensued that 2017 was ‘The farewell to many great friends and Luthchleas Gael. Since taking over as they have been excellent partners Armagh Down Observer' was the GAA the way it should be. I thank him for his Year of The Ranch.’ There was further I express my condolences and that Rúnai Comhairle Uadh he has been in a changing communications paper of choice in our house and I efforts and also commend Paul McGurk northern success with the victory of of the Council to all who lost loved an invaluable source of guidance environment and I thank them for know the same was the case for many and Claire Curran for their ongoing the University of Ulster at Magee in the ones during this period. In particular I and advice. I thank him for that and the support, assistance and advice titles in the Group. I thank them and engagement with the media and Corn Na Mac Leinne. Colm Cavanagh express my condolences and those of for his wider dedication to our great that they gave to Ulster GAA during all the reporters who contributed to the public and I also thank Stephen picked up a deserved GAA/GPA the Council to our members, past and association. I wish him well in his this time. In particular I thank Niall their papers for their great efforts in Donnelly for his efforts in ensuring that All-Star Award, while Derry’s Gerald present, who lost loved ones during retirement and extend my best Laird for his patience, tolerance and promoting our games, especially in our match day programmes are of such Bradley was named as the Player of the past year. Included here are the wishes to his successor. understanding and wish him and his an era when we maybe didn't enjoy high quality. the Nicky Rackard Cup. The Donegal mothers of two of our past Presidents', team every best wish for the future. the same levels of coverage that we trio of Eoghan Bán Gallagher, Michael Sadie McAviney, the mother of Martin, MEDIA AND INFORMATION Following an open competition AV receive today. It was a great night for Ulster at the Carroll and Michael Langan won Eirgrid and Kathleen Farrell, the mother of TECHNOLOGY Browne were appointed to the role. annual McNamee Awards (for 2016) U-21 Player of the Year Awards, while Aogán. Two great friends of the GAA, The media landscape has changed They are a company with a proven The media play a significant role in our with Tyrone winning the Best County Derry’s Conor McCluskey, Padraig but better known in the world of dramatically in the last decade and track record and the team at Ulster interaction with the public and I place Final Programme award and Monaghan McGrogan and twin brothers Oisin and politics, passed away within weeks of continues to do so at an alarming rate. GAA looks forward to working with on record my thanks to all the print winning the best GAA Publication Lorcan McWilliams were all honoured each other in March. News is now a constant with digital them as we aim to maximise our print and online journalists, radio and online Award for their 2016 Yearbook. with selection on the Electric Ireland media platforms now the medium of and digital potential. commentators, digital media operators, Armagh TV were successful in picking Minor Football team of the year, as was P.J. Bradley was a lifelong friend choice and not only with the younger The changing way in which people photographers and television and up the award for Best New Digital Cavan’s Oisin Pearson. and mentor who had been an ever generation. Social media is therefore digital broadcasters who do much to Initiative, while 'Irish News' reporter Ulster referees continue to excel at presence in my life since my childhood a key component of Ulster GAA in capture the excitement of our games Neil Loughran picked up the National national level with Joe McQuillan days. A founder member of both the endeavouring to ensure that our and bring them to an audience which Media Award for his absorbing and taking charge of the All-Ireland Burren Youth Club and the Burren insightful interview with 1991 Down Senior Football Final and with Ciaran Athletics Club his leadership and All-Ireland winning full-forward Branagan taking charge of the U-21 visionary instincts were apparent to Peter Withnell. I congratulate them decider. We’ve long argued over the me from an early age and it was no all on achieving such well merited years that our top hurling referees surprise that he transferred these skills recognition. have perhaps not received the into the political sphere as he served as recognition they deserved but maybe a councillor and MLA with distinction. CONGRATULATIONS this is beginning to change and the A great storyteller he has recorded Congratulations to all those teams appointment of Conor Cunning to his many lifetime experiences in two who won provincial honours at club referee the All-Ireland Intermediate publications and he was in the process and county level and to the clubs Hurling final was therefore very of writing a third before his untimely who achieved success within their much welcomed. death. A great GAA gael who served respective counties. At national level on both the committee of Burren pride of place goes to the Tyrone U-17 I commend all the winners of the Ulster GAC and the South Down Board he team who played superbly all year GAA President's Awards and thank attended every All-Ireland Football to win the All-Ireland title, defeating them for their continued commitment Final between 1952 and 2016 inclusive Roscommon in the final. The story of to the Association. There was also and his presence is greatly missed by the year was the magnificent victory success for Ulster at the National those who knew him. of St. Mary’s University College, Belfast President's Awards with that great in winning the Sigerson Cup. Falling servant of Derry and Ulster receiving

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I had the honour and privilege 2005 and 2008 and indeed in the latter Down's All-Ireland winning triumphs historic Derry National Football League Paddy Devlin who served the GAA have given so generously of their time of working closely with Martin year it was accompanied by the Tom of 1960 and 1961, which did so much winning team of 1947 was broken in many capacities but is probably throughout the year and thank them McGuinness when he served as Deputy Markham Cup on the only occasion that for the promotion of gaelic games with the death of Roddy Gribbin, just best remembered for his services to for it. They all do so in a voluntary First Minister and, like P.J., he was an Ulster county has in Ulster. Maurice succeeded Peadar months after the death of his equally refereeing. Among his accolades is capacity and that includes many taken from us after a short illness and won both titles in the same year. Barry as Down County Secretary in renowned brothers Owen and Mickey. the honour of taking charge of two members of staff who are also vital to died all too soon. Many words have Pat gave lifelong service to the GAA 1956. Peadar had held the post for All-Ireland Senior Football finals, in our work on match days. I sincerely been written about Martin and no and his wisdom and knowledge is sorely thirty years and I've been told that Former back to back Ulster senior 1972 (replay) and 1974. Another great thank you all. doubt many more will be in the years missed by the GAA community when asked who would succeed him football championship winning Tyrone stalwart who passed away to come but it was an enlightening at large. Peadar replied; manager Frank Kearney also passed in 2017, who served both his club I thank the officers of all nine Ulster and telling experience to work so away after a short illness. The GAA (Derrylaughan) and county in equal counties and extend particular thanks closely with someone who had Former Derry County Chairman Dermot "there's a young lad in Downpatrick was in Frank's veins and he made a measure, was Mena Devlin. to our County Secretaries, with whom I diplomacy, tact, vision and warmth in Devlin was called to his eternal reward and not only could he run the county telling contribution to its many facets. have most dealings. Your ongoing help equal measure. He was a great GAA in May. A familiar voice on BBC Radio but he could run the country." Frank was a proud Derry man and a The GAA community in Donegal and support is greatly appreciated. supporter and a regular attender at our Ulster his match reports were always proud Maghera man and he was part mourned the death of Pat Shovelin I thank also the Ard Stiurthoir and games. Behind the scenes he worked clear and informative in an era when How prophetic those words turned of the winning Glen team which won in October. The Ardara man was a the staff of Croke Park who are so tirelessly for the Association and was GAA affiars did not secure as much out to be as Maurice would go onto an All-Ireland Scor Sinsir Question popular figure in the North-West and generous with their time and always a crucial voice for us at the political attention on the airwaves as they do hold many top posts as a civil servant Time title in 1979. Former St. John's, was the goalkeeping coach for the make themselves available when table. His influence knew no bounds today. and in public life including Permanent Antrim and Ulster hurler Seamus Donegal team during their historic guidance or clarification is needed. and he was able to provide important Secretary in the Department of Health Gallagher was also called to his eternal 2012 All-Ireland winning campaign. He inroads for Ulster GAA and the wider Just last month former Down GAA and Social Services, Chairman of the reward – Seamus was a whole hearted, performed the same role with the U-21 Our sponsors are very much part of Association to the corridors of power. Chairman and Treasurer Harry McEvoy Community Relations Commission, traditional style, committed hurler and side which reached the All-Ireland U-21 Ulster GAA's partnership working and We are all the poorer without his passed away. Harry was a founder Ombudsman, member of Seanad was a great stalwart of the game. final two years previously. I thank all our main sponsors, O'Neill's guiding hand. member of both the Drumaness and Eireann and, significantly, a member International Sportswear and Bank Carryduff Clubs and he devoted much of the Patten Commission which led Pat Murtagh, a great stalwart of Burren As I finalise my report I have heard of Ireland, and all of our corporate In November we said goodbye to of his life to the promotion of GAA to the reform of policing in the north. and Down, died suddenly in June and of the sudden death of Pomeroy sponsors for their continued generosity Brian McLernon who served as throughout Down and further afield. Maurice attended Down games until his loss is greatly felt throughout the Plunkett's footballer Chris Colhoun. and commitment to gaelic games in Uachtarain Comhairle Uladh between He was a great supporter of Scor and shortly before his death and he was GAA community while Paddy Savage Chris played on the Plunkett's side the province. 1992 and 1995. The quiet man from it was fitting that he was honoured for always available to share some of his departed this world all too soon in that won the Ulster Intermediate Derrylaughan, who had unfortunately his immense contribution in that field at many experiences or offer words of December, just weeks after stepping Club Football Championship in 2016 I thank also our colleagues in Ulster been in ill health for several years the 2016 All-Ireland Scór Sinsir Finals in advice and encouragement. A peace down as Secretary of his beloved and was an integral part of the team Camogie and Ulster Ladies GAA for before his death, was gentle in deed Killarney. maker and a bridge builder, Maurice's Ballyholland Harps, a post he had held that reached the Tyrone Senior their support and understanding and I and in nature and he led the GAA dying wish was to be buried at Down for almost thirty years. Championship semi-final in 2017. congratulate Kathleen Woods on being in Ulster during a golden era for The GAA world was shocked in Cathedral, home of the Church of elected to take over as president of the the province when Donegal, Derry November to learn of the sudden death Ireland, in his beloved Downpatrick. Also in the Mourne county Willie THANKS Camogie Association in April. I wish and Down all won All-Ireland Senior of former Monaghan Chairman Liam In many ways he was and remained to Coulter, who was part of Down’s In conclusion I wish to thank everyone her well in her new venture and I have Football titles. A great supporter of all Stirrat. A famous son of Scotstown the very end a man ahead of his time. historic All-Ireland Junior hurling win who has supported and guided me no doubt that the Camogie Association things Irish he espoused the values of Liam served his native Monaghan of 1964, passed away as did Jimmy during my first year in post. I am is in safe hands with Kathleen at the the GAA and the Ulster Council was with distinction both as a player and Tattyreagh suffered further loss with Stewart and Pete Ryan who were truly grateful for your support and helm. enriched by his presence. administrator. As well as Chairman the tragic death of their player Dominic great stalwarts of Aghaderg and I am privileged to be working with he held numerous other roles on the Earley, who was also part of Mattie Rostrevor respectively. The community and in contact with so many good As one President assumes office We also lost another great Tyrone man Monaghan County Committee including McGleenan’s backroom team in Cavan of Mayobridge was shocked and people. Our team of stewards from another departs and it would be in Tattyreagh’s Pat Darcy. A former that of Treasurer and Central Council and Glenullin footballer Shaun Mullan saddened by the tragic death of the province and from the counties remiss of me not to pay tribute to Tyrone County Chairman, Pat was delegate and his departure is a huge loss was also taken from us all too soon. young Nicole Fegan in November, and the team officials and members the outgoing Uachtarain Cumann Chair of Ulster GAA’s Code of Ethics to the GAA in Monaghan and further just hours after she had competed of Comhairle Uladh have been of Luthchleas Gael Aogán Ó Fearghail. Committee and a great servant of afield. Former Fermangh manager Hugh in Scór Na nÓg. great assistance in organising a very A former Ulster GAA President, Aogán Cumann Luthchleas Gael. While quiet McCabe also said farewell to this world substantial games programme and has led from the front during his three by nature when Pat spoke people Just before Christmas we were after a period of illness, as did Leo Anna McCaughey who was a great without your continuing efforts we years as GAA President and he has left listened and he had the honour of saddened to learn of the death of Dr. Murphy, the outstanding full-back servant of the GAA in Tyrone, and would be unable to be as inclusive as an indelible mark on the affairs of the being County Chairman when Sam Maurice Hayes. A man of great intellect, on Down’s All-Ireland winning teams a strong advocate of Scor, was also we currently are. I acknowledge the Association. I wish Aogán every best Maguire came to the O’Neill County in Maurice was the mastermind behind of 1960 and 1961. The last link of the called to her eternal reward, as did dedication and commitment of all who wish in wherever his next venture may

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bring him and extend my warmest Looking ahead to 2018 we have a lot congratulations to his successor John to be positive about but we cannot Horan and wish him every success for rest on our laurels as we strive to his term of office. improve our player and membership participation rates. The vision of the "The vision of the Association is to Finally, I thank the team at home, Association is to welcome everyone without whose support I could not to participate in our games and fulfil this role to the best of my ability. culture and to develop their potential welcome everyone to participate My wife Deirdre has been a rock at my so they may be inspired to keep a side and I thank her for her tolerance lifelong engagement with the GAA. and understanding. My daughter Étain If we continue to adhere to our in our games and culture and to is always at hand to offer support key values of Community Identity, or indeed to provide an alternative Amateur Status, Inclusiveness, opinion and while I didn't get to see as Respect, Player Welfare and develop their potential so they many of Ardán and Malachai's games Teamwork we will go a long way in 2017 as I would have liked to, they towards reaching that milestone. were a useful sounding board for some may be inspired to keep a lifelong of Ulster GAA's initiatives with regards to young people and young players in BRIAN MAC FHIOBHUÍ particular. Rúnaí Comhairle Uladh CLG engagement with the GAA."

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