An Chomdhail Bhliantúil 2012

Tuarascáil Bhliaintúil An Runaí

A Chairde, The past season has witnessed the helped to maintain government support Counties failure to win frontline for staffing costs for 2011 and 2012. Sometimes it is better to have a vision championships but Donegal did win for the future than to rely on our the Allianz Football League Division The stewards, team officials and members current or historic past. While all are 2 title as well as reaching the All- of Comhairle Uladh give an enormous important and we cannot choose to Ireland semi final where they could amount of time to act in many capacities operate with indifference to who we have succeeded against the eventual such as stiles men, stewards, counters are, where we came from or where we winners Dublin. Crossmaglen Rangers and supervisors throughout the year. We want to go and to this end we need to returned to All-Ireland Championship could not do without this outstanding input be confident of what we have achieved success and Lisnakea Emmetts also by a great team. We are also indebted to and more importantly be confident of emulated their success by winning the our staff, who have given generously of our future, of our communities and All-Ireland Intermediate title. The ladies their time in working and in a voluntary above all the inherent ability of our of Lisnaskea won the female equivalent capacity within the management and people to build a future worthy of while Sperrin óg won the All-Ireland control of games and are actively involved the land of Saints and Scholars. We Junior title. In camogie, Eoghan Rua in the delivery of key elements of the are living in continuing challenging Coleraine collected the All-Ireland championship programme. We are also times but rather than looking back Intermediate Club Championship. St. indebted to An Cisteoir, Micheal ó hOsain, to what might have been let us look Colman’s College retained the Hogan who gives generously of his time to the forward to establishing community Cup and the performance of our schools wider benefit of Comhairle Uladh and and personal confidence that we can and colleges have been encouraging provides the necessary support and do better, be stronger and above all for the future. Furthermore, Donegal leadership in managing all aspects of our fairer to the society in which we abide. collected the All-Ireland Vocational financial matters and for which we are We need to sustain our industry and Schools title. In hurling, there were deeply grateful to him including his work try to retain the generation of skilled successes for Donegal in the Lory as Chairman of Coiste Airgeadas. We young men and women who are Meagher Cup, Tyrone in the Allianz also acknowledge the input of Proinsias emigrating in substantial numbers to Hurling League Division 4 and St Patricks MacGabhan as Runai of the Committee and the detriment of the Country and its’ Maghera collected the O’Keefe Cup. the members of the Committee for their ability to generate employment and help and active support for the work of wealth. The future is in our hands Finance the Council. I would also want to place on and we must encourage our society, The economic climate in 2011 has record our appreciation of Michelle McAleer our community and membership continued to have an affect on the who has ensured our financial governance that we can rebuild the confidence council in its progress at delivering is excellent and for her dedication and of our people in their own ability to programmes and offering support to its commitment far beyond the call of duty. establish a new society based on trust, constituent units. There remains to be a respect and responsibility. We need to vast amount of investment in club and Comhairle Uladh finances are still encourage our best people to become coaching development but this is restricted dependant on the level of support for leaders in society by ensuring that they due to a decrease in our championship our games programme, from external are valued and supported. We have gates. The council endeavour to find a sources and from the Association many challenges ahead but provided suitable pricing structure, through various in the delivery of several aspects of we apply a proper attitude to all based initiatives, to encourage supporters out our Strategic Plan. The total income on respect, rights and responsibilities to our games. This has been evident in amounted to €4,936,972 inclusive of in equal measure then we will ensure a an increase other competition revenue. all grants. Our gate income €1,193,905 society that we need and deserve and Ulster GAA received a rigorous governance represented 24% of this compared to committed to the idealism that has and controls audit from consultants 27% of the total income in 2010. In 2011 been the driving force to the GAA since employed by Sport NI and a satisfactory our grant income, €1,160,534 represents our foundation. assurance level was achieved which has 24% of our total in comparison to 22%

30 Chomhairle Uladh CLG Ulster Council GAA 31 Annual Convention 2012 An Chomdhail Bhliantúil 2012

in 2010. The expenditure amounted to Annual Provincial Fixtures Seminar week later, a first half onslaught by the €4,821,924. In addition, the investment highlights the huge number of games Doíre attack led by , laid the in Grounds and Infrastructure amounted played in Ulster. In 2011, this amounted foundations for a comprehensive 1-18 to €100,000. There was an operating to 16,919 games in both codes at youth 1-10 victory over Fear Manach at Celtic surplus on the years working equating to and adult level, with significantly more Park. The following Saturday night, at the €14,648. The monies from Ard Comhairle hurling games taking place at youth level Morgan Athletic Grounds, Ard Mhacha have also assisted in achieving our which is encouraging. I would like to take defeated neighbours An Dún on a 1-15 objectives but we need to be mindful that this opportunity to commend all those to 1-10 scoreline. A first half goal from we are working to the interests of our involved in fixture making in their roles Brian McGuigan was effectively the Association in difficult economic times. on the Competitions Control Committee difference in eight days later, in their respective counties. as Tír Eoghain withstood a late fightback Games Activity from Muineachán to record a 1-13 to In 2011, the Anglo Celt Cup returned Dún na nGall were our only 1-11 victory. In the last quarter final, to Dún na nGall after a nineteen year representatives in the National Football goals from Patrick McBrearty and Rory absence, breaking the recent dominance League Finals, as they successfully Kavanagh helped Dún na nGall defeat of Ard Mhacha and Tír Eoghain in the defeated Laois in the Division 2 decider. An Cabhán by 2-14 to 1-08 at Kingspan Senior Football Championship. Aontroim With regard to hurling, I must commend Breffni Park. Both semi finals were both again retained the Liam Harvey Cup, Tír Eoghain for their success in the staged at St Tiernach’s Park, Clones and albeit the re-emergence of Ard Mhacha National Hurling League Division 4, on Sunday 19th June, Dóire blitzed Ard to the Ulster Senior Hurling Final was while Doíre were again unfortunately Mhacha in a resounding 3-14 to 1-11 a welcome addition. The Ulster Club defeated in the Division 3A Final, this success with Conleith Gilligan and Eoin Championships returned to two familiar time by Cill Mhaintáin. Pride of place on Bradley in sparkling form. The following homes. Crossmaglen Rangers and the National stage in hurling must go week, Dún na nGall defeated Tír Eoghain Loughgiel Shamrocks both completed to Dún na nGall who collected the Lory in a tighter affair with a last minute goal back to back successes in their respective Meagher Cup by defeating Tír Eoghain from proving to be the codes. The attendances at our Ulster Club in a highly entertaining final. Such a difference in a 2-06 to 0-09 victory. Championships continued to rise and we success highlights the dedication of this experienced the largest attendance at an group as they had failed at the final stage The Ulster Final took place three weeks men on their way to a 1-11 to 0-08 In the next round two weeks later, all defeated An Dún by 2-20 to 0-14 on Ulster Senior Football Club Final in quite in both 2009 to Tír Eoghain and 2010 to later where Dún na nGall and Doíre met victory. The scenes of jubilation at the Ulster teams remained in the race for Sam an extremely disappointing day for some time when Crossmaglen defeated Longfort. Congratulations to all involved. at St Tiernach’s Park, Clones on Sunday final whistle epitomised the importance Maguire. Aontroim defeated Ceathearlach the Mournemen. Tír Eoghain and Ard Burren at the recently refurbished 17th July. Over 27,000 spectators that counties place on an Ulster title. at Casement Park, An Dún defeated Mhacha squared up to one another in a Morgan Athletic Grounds. In our first competition of the year, the attended the Final on a day when the Congratulations go to Dún na nGall for a Liatroim at Pairc Esler while Tír Eoghain great game. Goals from Joe McMahon Dr McKenna Cup, Doíre collected the Ulster Senior Football Champions well deserved success. won away to Longfort. Ard Mhacha drew and Tommy McGuigan were crucial as At club level, there were again five title by defeating Tír Eoghain by 2-12 to from 25 years previous, Tír Eoghain with Cill Mhantáin after extra time in a they ran out 2-13 to 0-13 winners in divisions in the Ulster Senior Hurling 2-11 in a highly entertaining final at the were honoured. It was also fitting that All-Ireland Football thrilling encounter at the Morgan Athletic front of a large crowd at Healy Park. Club League in 2011 with 61 teams Morgan Athletic Grounds. I also extend Uachtarán na hEireann, Mary McAleese Championship Grounds. The following weekend, the competing. In 2012, this competition my gratitude to Barrett Sports Lighting was present in her last year in office in The All-Ireland Football Championship Orchard County made no mistake in The following weekend Tír Eoghain will include club teams from outside the for their sponsorship of this important what was a memorable day for Ulster for Ulster representatives began with Aughrim as they collected a 2-09 to 0-10 and Dún na nGall were both part of a province and will become known as the competition in the Ulster GAA calendar. GAA. With the inclusion of honouring five of our counties involved on Saturday victory. On the same day, An Dún finished triple header at Croke Park. Tír Eoghain Táin Club Hurling League. With regard the successful teams from the past, 25th June. There were victories for with a late goal surge to defeat Aontroim showed positive signs that they could to the Ulster Football Club League, 2011 Senior Football Championship Cumann na mBunscol exhibition Aontroim over Iar Mhí and for An Dún by 3-13 to 0-10 at Casement Park. progress further as they defeated Ros saw an increase in the number of teams The 2011 Ulster Senior Football games, Scór representation, band over An Clár. The other three Ulster Comáin by 3-19 to 1-14 while in the participating, with a total of 59 clubs Championship commenced at Pairc entertainment, the Minor Football Final counties were disappointingly defeated. The following weekend, beaten Ulster Quarter Final, Ulster champions Dún na involved. This again provided clubs with MacCumhaill on Sunday 15th May, where and the Senior showpiece, Ulster Final An Cabhán were beaten by Longfort by finalists Doíre were defeated by Cill Dara nGall edged out beaten Leinster finalists, competitive action at their appropriate Dún na nGall, fresh from their National day continues to be a celebration of 2-16 to 0-11 at Kingspan Breffni Park, by 0-19 to 0-13 at Croke Park. On the Cill Dara by 1-12 to 0-14 after extra time. level prior to the commencement of their League success, took on Aontroim. A late our great Association in the province of Muineachán lost out to Uibh Fháili by same billing, the All-Ireland finalists A week later, Tír Eoghain faced Baile Átha internal county games programmes. goal from Mark McHugh ensured that Ulster. The first half was a tense affair 1-18 to 1-10 in Tullamore while Fear from the previous year faced up to one Cliath in the Quarter Final and despite Dún na nGall progressed to the quarter and an early second half penalty goal Manach were disappointingly beaten by another, with a similar result, albeit by a scoring fifteen points, they were well Data provided for presentation at the finals on a scoreline of 1-10 to 0-07. One from Michael Murphy set the Tír Chonaill Londáin in Ruislip by 0-16 to 0-09. considerably different margin. Corcaigh beaten on a 0-22 to 0-15 scoreline. Dún

32 Chomhairle Uladh CLG Ulster Council GAA 33 Annual Convention 2012 An Chomdhail Bhliantúil 2012

na nGall would meet this challenge three Enniskillen. The final meeting between champions, Dún na nGall in Brewster Dromore in a great game of football. respectively. The Junior Final was played The Quarter Final stage saw weeks later. In a tense affair, Baile Átha An Cabhán and Ard Mhacha was eagerly Park while Tír Eoghain beat Muineachán At the Semi Final stage, Crossmaglen as the curtain raiser to the senior decider comprehensive victories for Ard Mhacha Cliath finished strongly to eventually awaited and it was certainly a game of at the same venue. The following week, held off a strong second half comeback at the Morgan Athletic Grounds, and it over Muineachán (2-18 to 2-06) at Pairc see off the Ulster champions, by 0-08 to two halves. After dominating the first An Cabhán and Tír Eoghain played out from Ballinderry as they ran out 0-16 to was Derrytresk who held on to record a Esler and An Dún over Doíre (3-19 to 0-06 and thus, end Ulster’s involvement half, Ard Mhacha were in pole position at a highly entertaining encounter in front 1-10 winners at Casement Park. In the 2-05 to 0-10 victory, and thus, collect 1-09), at Casement Park. The Semi Final in the All-Ireland series. Baile Átha Cliath half time but a resurgent An Cabhán side of a large crowd at Brewster Park. An other game, Burren had to do likewise the Paul Kerr Cup. saw a massive shock with Ard Mhacha went on to claim the Sam Maguire after a were not to be denied as they emerged early goal from half forward Niall Murray as Latton finished strongly, but it wasn’t defeating neighbours An Dún by 0-14 sixteen year wait. victorious on a 0-12 to 1-06 scoreline. proved to be vital as the Breffni men enough as the Down champions edged it All-Ireland Club Football to 1-10 at Casement Park. This result Congratulations to An Cabhán for a well collected the title on a 1-10 to 0-10 by 1-10 to 0-11 at the Morgan Athletic Championship saw Ard Mhacha qualifying for their first As regards the 2011 All Stars, I extend deserved success. As Ulster champions, scoreline. The scenes of joy from their Grounds. After both clubs agreed to Crossmaglen Rangers defeated Kilmacud Ulster Senior Hurling Championship my congratulations to the three Dún na An Cabhán took on Gaillimh at Longford supporters at the final whistle illustrated toss for the venue for the decider, the Crokes at Navan on a 2-11 to 1-12 Final since 1946. This was a remarkable nGall players who received awards. Well in an All-Ireland Quarter Final. The the importance of this success, and the Morgan Athletic Grounds was the choice. scoreline to reach another All-Ireland achievement by the Orchard County done to Neil McGee, and concession of a goal was the difference county would gain further success later Crossmaglen again illustrated all their decider on St Patricks Day. They produced and is a testament for all the good . Special mention also to Liam in a tight contest as they were defeated in the year with their minor team. This guile and craft as they kept Burren another strong team performance in developmental work being done within Watson (Aontroim) who was called up as by 1-09 to 0-09. On the same day, was a tremendous success for An Cabhán at a safe distance in a 2-11 to 0-10 the final against Connacht champions, the county. Three weeks later, Aontroim a late replacement for the hurling All Star beaten Ulster finalists Ard Mhacha lost and augurs well for the future. success and a subsequent ninth Seamus St Brigids. Well taken goals from Aaron defeated Ard Mhacha by 2-20 to 2-12 Trip to San Francisco at the end of 2011. out in a thrilling encounter at Croke Park. McFerran cup. Cunningham and Jamie Clarke ensured at Casement Park, to collect another They lost out by the narrowest margin to In the All-Ireland semi final played at Parnell that the Andy Merrigan cup would Liam Harvey Cup. Congratulations to Minor Football Championship Ros Comáin on a 3-10 to 0-18 scoreline Park three days later, An Cabhán defeated In the Intermediate Football Club return to Crossmaglen for another year. Aontroim on securing another Ulster title. The competiveness of the Ulster Minor after extra time. Loch Garman by 1-10 to 0-8 to complete Championship, the standard of this year’s Congratulations to all involved in another Football Championship was illustrated a remarkable week. The final was fixed for championship was of a very high standard. tremendous success for Crossmaglen. All-Ireland Hurling in the Preliminary Round when Aontroim Under 21 Football Croke Park and they came up against a In the Preliminary Round, All Saints Championship travelled to Pairc Mac Cumhaill and Championship strong Gaillimh side. The Tribesmen proved Ballymena travelled to Kingspan Breffni In the All-Ireland Intermediate Club Aontroim were involved in the McCarthy defeated Dún na nGall on a 2-09 to This Championship continues to thrive to be too strong as they ran out deserving Park and easily defeated Drumgoon Championship, Lisnaskea Emmetts made Cup where they were drawn against Iar 1-07 scoreline. The following week, in its current Wednesday night slot winners on a 2-16 to 1-09 scoreline. by 2-12 to 0-07. In the Quarter Finals, it a double for Ulster as they defeated Mhí in the First Round. In a thoroughly the surprises continued as Fear Manach in the fixture programme, where it They may have fell at the final hurdle there were victories for Culloville, St James’ from Galway in the All-Ireland entertaining game that was played at defeated a highly fancied Doíre side in does not directly impinge on counties but the big challenge for An Cabhán is Carrickmacross, Craigbane and All Saints. Final on a scoreline of 1-16 to 0-15 Casement Park, Aontroim progressed Celtic Park on a 1-09 to 0-07 scoreline. preparations for National Football for this team to progress through to the In the Semi Finals, Culloville needed extra after extra time at Croke Park. I must to the next stage by 2-25 to 1-19. The The following Saturday night, we were Leagues and also benefits from an senior ranks in years to come. time to overcome All Saints by 2-11 to congratulate Lisnaskea on becoming the following weekend, Aontroim again treated to the game of the Minor Football increased interest from our spectators. 0-12 while Culloville easily defeated first club from the county to win an All- had home advantage as they defeated Championship. Despite conceding five In the Preliminary Round on Wednesday Club Football Championship Carrickmacross by 1-14 to 0-09. In the Ireland club title. Ceatharlach by 0-23 to 1-12. However, goals and trailing by eleven points at one 9th March, Doíre defeated Ard Mhacha The Ulster Club Championship evidently Final, played on a terrible night in Healy a fortnight later, the Saffron County were stage, Ard Mhacha somehow recovered by 2-10 to 3-03 in terrible weather has that lure for our supporters and the Park, Craigbane edged out the Armagh In the junior grade, Swanlinbar fell at the well beaten by Luimneach at Parnell Park, to emerge 3-11 to 5-04 winners over conditions at Celtic Park. On Wednesday local aspect means that all clubs can champions on a 0-06 to 0-05 scoreline to final hurdle to a very strong St Mary’s going down on a 3-22 to 0-12 scoreline. An Dún at the Morgan Athletic Grounds. 16th March, the four quarter finals took aspire to the greatest stage throughout collect the Patrick McCully Cup. Cahirciveen side also played at The following day, An Cabhán defeated place. There were wins for An Cabhán, the province and indeed, Croke Park. In Croke Park. In the Christy Ring Cup, An Dún, Doire and Aontroim at Pairc Esler by 2-11 to 2-02 Dún na nGall and Muineachán while the Preliminary Round, first time winners In the Junior Football Championship, Ard Mhacha were Ulster’s representatives. while Tír Eoghain beat Muineachán An Dún and Tír Eoghain played out a of Dún na nGall, Glenswilly surprisingly there was no representation from Fear Senior Hurling Championship Ironically, Ard Mhacha were eliminated by 0-15 to 1-05 at Brewster Park to draw after extra time in Pairc Esler. The defeated Cavan Gaels by 1-08 to 0-10 Manach so there was no requirement The 2011 Championship commenced courtesy of a defeat to An Dún at complete the semi final line up. following week at Healy Park, the sides at Kingspan Breffni Park. In the first of for a Preliminary Round. In the Quarter on 14th May with First Round games Ballycran on a scoreline of 1-19 to 0-06. still could not be separated as they drew the Quarter Finals, the 2010 All-Ireland Finals, there were wins for Eire Og, Burt involving Dún na nGall and An Dún, Tír An Mhí defeated Doíre at Banagher on a In the first semi final, Ard Mhacha 1-11 to 0-14 after extra time. At the champions, St Galls took on the 2011 All- and Derrytresk while Cremartin and Eoghain and Doíre and Fear Manach 4-18 to 1-13 scoreline while a fortnight produced a great team performance to third time of asking, this time at the Ireland champions, Crossmaglen Rangers Shercock played out a 2-11 to 1-14 draw and Ard Mhacha. In the first game at later, Ciarrai defeated An Dún by 1-18 to comfortably defeat Fear Manach by 2-18 Morgan Athletic Grounds, Tír Eoghain at Casement Park. The Armagh side at Kingspan Breffni Park. In the replay at , An Dún defeated the home 1-17 at Pairc Esler to end the interest of to 0-07 at St Tiernach’s Park, Clones. A emerged victorious on a 1-15 to 1-10 displayed ruthless efficiency as they carved Clones the following weekend, Cremartin side by 3-16 to 1-13. In Healy Park, all Ulster counties in this competition. fortnight later, two second half goals scoreline, bringing an end a trilogy of out a 3-09 to 2-06 success with relative emerged victorious by 1-07 to 1-03. In Tír Eoghain were defeated by Doíre by proved to be the difference as An Cabhán brilliant football that was a real tribute ease. In the other Quarter Finals, there the Semi Finals, there were relatively 2-13 to 0-06 and in Brewster Park, Ard The Nicky Rackard Cup saw Muineachán saw off the challenge from Tír Eoghain to both counties. In the semi finals, were wins for Burren over Roslea, Latton easy victories for both Derrytresk Mhacha had a comfortable 5-19 to 5-06 as the only competitors from the on a 2-13 to 2-10 at Brewster Park, An Cabhán defeated the reigning over Glenswilly and Ballinderry against and Cremartin over Eire Og and Burt victory over Fear Manach. province. After a good victory over

34 Chomhairle Uladh CLG Ulster Council GAA 35 Annual Convention 2012 An Chomdhail Bhliantúil 2012

encouraging for the future of club respect and support of players, mentors games activity. The Vocational Schools hurling in the province. and administrators alike towards the Committee and the Ulster Colleges referee, the games and the concept of Council are still active and administer All-Ireland Club Hurling fair play. We are extremely fortunate in a great amount of competitive activity Championship Ulster to have a panel of referees who are to meet the demands within their Loughgiel Shamrocks were Ulster’s willing and able to officiate at the vast respective education environments. We representatives in the All-Ireland Club amount of games under our control in recognise the input from teachers and Championship, having won the 2010 both codes. Special mention must go to support staff in this regard. Ulster Club Championship. In the All- Joe McQuillan (An Cabhán) and Padraig Ireland Semi Final on 19th February, they Hughes (Ard Mhacha) who took charge of The work of Cumann na mBunscol in came up against a strong O’Loughlin the All-Ireland Senior and Minor Football overseeing the work in the Primary Gaels side and were defeated by 3-10 to Finals respectively. Schools continues to develop and 0-09 at Parnell Park. In the All-Ireland ensures the vital promotion and Intermediate Club Championship Ulster Our Referees Committee do a fine development of our games. We are Fingal, they were defeated by 2-17 to all their skill to run out comprehensive Muineachán by 2-13 to 1-11 at St Champions Naomh Eoin lost out to job in the recruitment, training and deeply grateful for the remarkable work 1-13 by An Lú at Clones to bring their victors in the final on a scoreline of 4-17 Tiernachs Park and Tír Eoghain beat Fear Kilkenny champions, Dicksboro in the assessment of our referees and we are of our Primary Schools and thank the ambitions to a conclusion. to 1-08. Congratulations to Aontroim. In Manach by 6-14 to 2-06 at Killyclogher. Semi Final at Mullingar on a 0-16 to indebted to those that work to support teachers, support staff and local club the All-Ireland Quarter Final, Aontroim The Shield Final between Dún na nGall 1-09 scoreline. On the same day at the the referee. Paul Doris, Michael Hughes school links for the excellent work that In the Lory Meagher Cup, Ulster had were obliterated by Gaillimh by 8-26 to and Tír Eoghain was played as a curtain same venue, Inniskeen were defeated by and Frank McDonald have worked they do. four representatives –Dún na nGall, 0-12 at Parnell Park, illustrating the gap raiser to the Ulster Senior Football John Lockes on a 3-12 to 1-08 scoreline diligently to support the referee in Fear Manach, Tír Eoghain and An Dún that currently exists at this level. Championship Semi Final between the in the All-Ireland Junior Club Hurling every way throughout the year and I We work with the Third Level Colleges Theas. An Dún Theas were eliminated same two counties at St Tiernachs Park Championship Semi Final. would like to record our gratitude to and Universities to ensure that all by Dún na nGall on a scoreline of 1-15 Under 21 Hurling Championship and it was a superb contest. In a game them for their work. The Chairman of standards are developed as this group to 1-12 at Pairc Esler, while Fear Manach Four Ulster counties competed in the that ebbed and flowed from start to Inter Provincial Championships our Referees Committee, Joe Jordan plays a central part in the future interests were defeated by Warwickshire in the Under 21 Championship, which was finish, Dún na nGall edged out their The Inter Provincial Championships and has been totally committed to all of our Clubs. Again we have operated the Quarter Final by 4-08 to 1-10 at Brewster played on a knock out basis again. The neighbours by 4-16 to 3-18 after extra in both football and hurling did again aspects of refereeing. He has been fully Scholarship programme Bursary Scheme Park. In an all Ulster final at Croke First Round brought Ard Mhacha and time. They went on to compete in the All- not take place in 2011. As the current supported throughout by our Referees an indication of our commitment. Our Park, Dún na nGall finished strongly to Under 21 Shield winners Dún na nGall Ireland Under 21 ‘B’ Championship, where holders of the Football competition, Administrator and Secretary, Tiernach Drink, Drugs and Sausage rolls campaign emerge 2-12 to 0-17 winners over Tír together, with Ard Mhacha progressing they were defeated in the Semi Final by we have always been committed to Mahon. We are grateful to them both was again rolled out in 2011 to raise Eoghain in a fantastic game of hurling. on a scoreline of 2-21 to 1-06 at Healy Iar Mhí by 4-24 to 3-15 at Ballinamore. both these championships and we are and to their Committee for all their work awareness of lifestyle management Congratulations to Dún na nGall. Park. At a late stage, Doíre notified delighted that they are in the 2012 in this vital area of activity, especially for among young people. We thank our Comhairle Uladh that they were unable to Club Hurling Championship fixture calendar and hopefully, this is a their efforts in the recruitment process. Comhairle Ard Oidheachas Uladh for their Minor Hurling Championship field which was extremely disappointing In the Ulster Senior Club Championship, permanent measure to ensure that this We thank our referees for their time, immense amount of work in this sector. All nine counties competed in the Ulster and surely alarming for the future of Antrim Champions, Loughgiel important competition with a rich commitment and involvement in the Minor Hurling Championship in 2011. As hurling development within the Oak Leak Shamrocks, emerged as victors history continues. delivery of our games programme and Hurling Development in the Senior Championship, Aontroim County. In the semi final, Ard Mhacha after defeating Kevin Lynch’s in the also acknowledge the continued work Ulster GAA continues to invest significant got a bye into the Ulster Minor Hurling had a fine win over An Dún by 1-11 to Semi Final followed by a victory over Referees of the County Referees Administrators, resources into the development of Championship Final. In the First Round, 0-10 at Casement Park to set up a final Ballycran, to collect back to back The past year has been a tense one Assessors and Tutors to whom we are Hurling. Five newly designed coaching there was a noteable victory for An meeting with Aontroim. The Ulster Final titles. In the Intermediate Club Hurling for referees with a number of cases also indebted and who continue to do courses specific to Hurling were Cabhán over Muineachan at Kingspan produced a great game and a late rally Championship, Armagh champions where the referees authority has been outstanding work for our Association. developed and well attended. Two new Breffni Park (3-06 to 1-07). Elsewhere, from Aontroim ensured that it was them Middletown emerged as champions challenged and in some cases physically Hurling road shows were also organised there were facile victories for Dóire, who took the title courtesy of a 0-15 to by defeating Castleblayney in the challenged. This is not acceptable in Education in addition to an excellent Hurling An Dún and Ard Mhacha which did 2-07 victory. In the All-Ireland Semi final. In the Ulster Club Junior Hurling our Association and outlines the need Education remains an important sector Development day for Development nothing for the victors or their defeated Final, Aontroim came up against Baile Championship, Burt won their first ever to work on building respect through encompassing a number of critical areas squads in Armagh organised by opponents. In the quarter finals, Ard Átha Cliath as they suffered a devastating Provincial title after defeating Kickhams recognition of rights and responsibilities of operation of Council Business. The Ronan McWilliams. Mhacha easily defeated An Cabhán, while 3-23 to 0-06 defeat at Pairc Esler. Creggan after a replay by 2-10 to 0-13 in of all involved. It is the referees Second Level Schools Committee Chaired Doíre saw off An Dún by 2-19 to 2-09 at the final at the Morgan Athletic Grounds. responsibility to ensure that our games by Sean Ó Duibhánigh is operational The Ulster Minor Hurling League was Casement Park. In the semi final, Doíre Under 21 Hurling Shield The presence of club teams from Ard are played in accordance with the rules and works in conjunction with the played during March. Division One defeated Ard Mhacha by 1-14 to 1-08 In the Ulster Under 21 Hurling Shield Mhacha, Dún na nGall and Muineachán and to achieve this position requires the two schools bodies in the delivery of involved Armagh, Down and eventual to reach the final. Aontroim displayed Semi Finals, Dún na nGall defeated in the respective finals is extremely

36 Chomhairle Uladh CLG Ulster Council GAA 37 Annual Convention 2012 An Chomdhail Bhliantúil 2012

winners Antrim. Division Two was won The third Ulster Provincial U-10 Indoor government, the Rural Development and get a tour of Fenway Park as part Ulster GAA has now met all the Strategic n North South Ministerial Council by Tyrone. The Ulster Senior Club Hurling Hurling Blitz took place on Saturday Network, Church of Ireland and the of the tour programme. I am grateful targets set out in the National Strategic n Department of Cultural, Arts League continues to provide much 12th March, in the Meadowbank Sports Community Relations Council in the School Principals and teachers who Action Plan and Vision and we continue and Leisure needed hurling games for our club teams, Arena, Magherafelt. This year we had organising good relations events and engaged with us for this project and to to be a model for best practice and n Department of Education with a total of 61 teams participating 756 players playing on 90 teams from seminars aimed at educating and Maura McMenamin and Stephen Donnelly innovation. 2012 sees the conclusions of n Department of Social Development in five Divisions. During June, all Ulster 43 Clubs from across the Province which engaging with new people. I would like who acted as Tour Managers for the trip three five year strategies in Derry, Cavan n Sport NI Hurling staff organised an Under 16 participated in a ‘FUN’ Centred Blitz. to put on record our gratitude to the along with Paul Callaghan who trained and Antrim and all three Counties are n Office the First Minister and Deputy (9-a-side) blitz competition with each of There was a total of 220 games played Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade and managed the team. We have now in the process of developing new plans First Minister the county champions qualifying for the over the 3hrs with all teams showing who fund part of these projects through completed the four year cycle for this that will direct the work of their County n Department of Finance and Personnel Ulster Finals day on 18th June. County great skill and commitment the Reconciliation Fund and I would also programme and are reviewing the future Committees until 2017. The Derry plan n Department of Environment, Development Squad blitz competitions thank Central Council and in particular, of the project, it is however my view that it has been completed and it is ambitious Community and Local Government were held at U-14, U-15, U-16 & U-17 Through work with Ulster Colleges, Regional Director General Paraic Duffy for its will continue in a different format for the and forward looking vision for the Oak n Department of the Environment levels. Our counties continue to put a lot Hurling staff have assisted with the continued support in all of this work. foreseeable future. Leaf County and I wish them every of effort into this area of development, amalgamation of a number of colleges. success in their endeavours. I would like Ongoing engagement takes place on however in some cases the number of Down Colleges played in the Mageean Cuchulainn Cup: Sport 4 Change, the Game of 3 Halves: to recognise and thank the Honorary a weekly basis with local government players is low and there is a struggle to Cup, and Tyrone Colleges played in the The Foyle Cuchulainns were this years We have established a working group Strategic Advisor of Ulster GAA Mark in both jurisdictions throughout the maintain teams in certain age groups, Casement Cup. This has proved to be a very winners of the Cross Community Hurling with both the Community Relations Conway for his continued input into this Province. The Public Affairs work of this is being reviewed for 2012. The worthwhile exercise as the players involved and tournament which departments in Ulster Rugby and process in a voluntary capacity. Ulster GAA is core business and vitally annual Under 16 residential ‘Elite Camp’ would never have had the opportunity to was held in the Mid Ulster Sports Arena the IFA called Sport 4 Change, which important to ensure that the GAA was once again held at the University of compete at these levels and both Down in Cookstown. We had a significant has been put in place to oversee the Public Affairs: remains relevant and important within Ulster at Jordanstown, 42 young hurlers and Tyrone will use the players to form increase in our participants this year operations of the Game of 3 Halves Ulster GAA continues to engage with the public sector. from across Ulster attended the camp. U-17 Development Squads. Donegal with over 240 children from both the project. Chaired by Trevor Ringland the the Public sector to heighten awareness Following on from the elite camp for have formed an amalgamation college’s maintained and controlled education group comprises of representatives of our Association and its positive Urban Development Under-16 hurlers, at the beginning of team in Inis Eoghan at both Under 13 and sectors attending the competition. I from Ulster GAA, Ulster Rugby, IFA and contribution to our society. Over the last Belfast: July, two teams were selected to play Under 15 levels. would thank all the teachers, partners Peaceplayers International. We hope to year an Ulster GAA delegation engaged We have made steady progress in relation Connacht teams in two challenge games and governors from across the education further formalise this arrangement in with the following Committees: to the improved promotion of the GAA in to promote hurling for the province’s The ongoing significant work of the sector who continue to support this the coming years. We organised several ● Ireland’s second City. The commitment by talented young players Hurling Development Committee Chaired important project events over the past year that involved n Presentation on GAA Community Belfast City Council to invest significant by Martin McAviney and the Hurling a cross community and good relations Engagement to the Oireachtas funding into the development of The Poc Fada was played in perfect Development Staff led by Jimmy Darragh Roe Valley Cuchulainn Tour: focus and tremendous work has been Committee on the implementation of facilities for Gaelic Games is a welcome conditions over Divis Mountain, just underlines Ulster GAA’s continued Now in its fourth year, the Cuchulainn invested by the three governing bodies the Good Friday Agreement development, our plans to develop the outside Belfast, Derry’s Ruairi Convery had commitment to our National Game. Tour aims to promote Gaelic Games to ensure we are promoting a shared n Presentation to the Assembly Woodlands site into an Urban GAA to fight off stiff competition as he claimed to those from a non-traditional GAA future and educating our young people in Committee for Social Development Participation Centre will have significant his third Ulster Poc Fada title in a row. Community Development background while promoting good the areas of tolerance and respect. on Licensing Law for Social Clubs benefits for the homeless schools and Community Outreach and Engagement: relations within the GAA. This year five n Presentation to the Assembly Clubs in Belfast and we also hope to After undergoing a successful re- Ulster GAA continues to play a significant schools participated in the project: Strategic Development: Committee on Culture, Arts and develop a strategic alliance with St. vamp in 2010, Féile Uladh 2011 took role in the promotion of Community Limavady Grammar School, Limavady Over the last year there has Leisure on the Casement Park Mary’s University College to ensure that place on Saturday 30th April in venues Relations and Engagement. As an anti High School, Rossmar Special School, St. been significant progress on the Stadium Development the students who value Gaelic Games in throughout Ulster. sectarian and anti racist Association we Mary’s Limavady and St. Patrick’s College implementation of the Ulster GAA this important institution are catered for. remain committed to developing a shared Dungiven. The team which comprised Provincial Strategy “Teaghlaigh agus An Ulster GAA delegation gave a Feile Uladh has been a regular feature future based on mutual respect and of boys from each school and 1 teacher Pobail An Fabraic de CLG” so much so presentation to Secretary of State, The plans to develop the pitches on on the Ulster Hurling Calendar since tolerance for everyone in the community. travelled to Boston in August representing that it is now my view that we need to Owen Patterson and his officials on the the Cherryvale site are also a welcome the late 90’s when the competition was To this end we continue to work strongly at Ulster in the 2012 Continental Youth start developing a new strategic plan GAA’s voluntary and community model. development and we are working with organised as a prelude to Ulster hosting promoting engagement and involvement Championships. The results on the field for the Ulster Council by the end of Ulster GAA also continues to have both Bredagh GAA and St. Malachy’s the National Féile competition. However of non traditional GAA individuals and of play did not reflect the friendships 2012 with a view to launching the plan ongoing engagement with the following GAA to ensure that needs of both Clubs after much debate the competition was groups through a number of programmes. developed and the hard work undertaken in mid 2013. I commend the Officers, government agencies: are catered for and achieved on the site. modernised last year and is now held in the roll out of this project. Our Members and Staff of Ulster GAA for their over two weekends, with group stages Ulster GAA also continued to support relationship with Boston College allowed significant work in implementing the n Department of Foreign Affairs The plans to develop the Clifftonville site being played to decide the finalists. various organisations ranging from local the group to use the College facilities recommendations of our strategy. and Trade is also a positive development and will

38 Chomhairle Uladh CLG Ulster Council GAA 39 Annual Convention 2012 An Chomdhail Bhliantúil 2012

allow both Ardoyne Kickhams GAA and been engaging with both the Clubs Live to Play: particular. These events, delivered by the value of having this important piece McAleese and her husband Martin for Pearses GAA use of the site and access to in the City and the Derry GAA County There was a continued reduction of the an Garda Siochana, PSNI and NI Fire & of equipment on site at GAA events, and the GAA to seek opportunities for older a floodlit GAA facility. St. Brigids GAA Club Committee to ensure that Gaelic Games numbers killed on our roads during 2011, Rescue Service, take place on a regional the training now offered by Ulster GAA people to be integrated back into Club is one of the largest in Ulster with nearly are appropriately catered for in any new and Ulster GAA remained a key player basis and to date over 30 have taken will ensure that members are trained and community life. As always the GAA 1000 members, the plans to extend development plans. I would like to record in supporting this reduction through place across the Province. We are and confident to use it. The programme answered the call and numerous events their current provision at Musgrave Park my thanks to Barry O’Hagan, Head of it’s Live to Play campaign. Launched indebted to the emergency services for is currently in pilot phase but by the have taken place across the country will hopefully see the development of a Sports Development at Derry City Council in 2010, the Campaign has proven a their involvement in this programme, end of February 240 Club officers will under the Social Initiative umbrella. second pitch and a Club House. for his continued support. huge success, gaining recognition from which has undoubtedly saved lives. have availed of training and close to Many Clubs have taken older members those involved in Road Safety including Significant praise must also go to our 50 Clubs better placed to deal with an to Croke Park for a match or stadium The commitment by Central Council for I remain concerned at the lack of Government Departments in both Live to Play County co-ordinators for emergency situation. Following a review tour, others have held music sessions, £1 million from the GAA to contribute investment and indeed support from jurisdictions and the Emergency services. their enormous efforts in organising with the Department it is hoped that historical walks or bingo! There is no to this development is a very positive Derry City Council for Celtic Park. events in conjunction with Ulster this programme will be expanded to limit to the types of things clubs are development and I am grateful to the Significant GAA and Public investment A successful funding application to DOE GAA. My thanks go to Brian Armitage more Clubs in Ulster. Ulster GAA is also doing and all are to be commended for Director General Paraic Duffy for his has resulted in Derry GAA developing enabled each of our County grounds to (Fermanagh), Paul Gaile (Derry), Tony seeking similar opportunities for Clubs in encouraging older people back to the ongoing support to the Belfast GAA a state of the art stadium, to date be furnished with Live to Play pitch- McCollum (Antrim), Cuthbert Donnelly the Southern jurisdiction. centre of Club life. urban project. These developments in Derry City Council have invested side signage, reinforcing the messages (Tyrone), Anthony Crozier (Down), Mick addition to new pitches in Falls Park and nothing in Derry’s County Ground. We delivered on Club Education nights. It McGrath (Donegal) and Liam McCabe Drink, Drugs, Sausage Rolls: The President welcomed all Social the Ozone site are a good start by Belfast have proposals in place to complete also afforded the opportunity to run (Cavan). Sincere thanks also to Kieran Squareball.com continued it’s support of Initiative GAA Clubs to Aras an Uachtarain City Council to address its historical the redeveloped stadium, the plans a Poster Competition for Primary and Kennedy and O’Neill’s for their continued Ulster GAA’s Student Health Programme; in July for what was a most memorable under provision for Gaelic Games. A good are focused on player provision and National schools in Ulster. Over 20,000 support and sponsorship of the Live Drink, Drugs and Sausage Rolls. Now in day for all involved. The annual seminar and constructive relationship currently administration. I hope that Derry City children took part in the competition with to Play initiative. I hope that with our it’s fifth year the programme continues took place in October and was well exists with the Council and its Officials Council will look favourably on investing 18 schools, 2 in each County, emerging continued efforts 2012 will see a further to capture the imagination of new supported by Clubs and organisations and I would recognise all the Counsellors in this project to ensure that all sports in as winners. Prizes for winners were reduction in traffic collisions, resulting and returning students alike. The with an interest in the Initiative. The who have supported our lobbying efforts, Derry City receive equity when it comes ‘reflective’ Live to Play backpacks and the in loss of life and serious injury, so that programme aims to encourage students GAA is an Association which prides itself I would also thank Peter McNanney and to local government investment. 540 recipients are now safer on our Roads no more families suffer the devastation to enjoy their time in College, while at in being ‘Lifelong’ and it is therefore Andrew Hazard for their continued efforts. during the winter months. Such was the which has been seen in the past. the same time living a healthy life. This fitting that we now have a structured The fire at Sean Dolan’s GAA was a success of this competition that Ulster is undoubtedly a challenge as student programme to encourage participation Derry City: significant set back for Gaelic Games in GAA will run a similar one in 2012. Automated External Defibrillator (AED) life is traditionally associated with for older people. I am grateful to We continue to invest in and support the Creggan area. We have been meeting and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation unhealthy behaviours. However, such is Cuthbert Donnelly for taking up the role the development of Clubs in Derry City. officials from the Club over the last few The Live to Play Club Education events (CPR) Courses: the design and language of Drink, Drugs of Ulster Social Initiative Representative, The recent strategic review of pitch weeks and I hope that Sean Dolan’s will have now taken place in 7 of our 9 Ulster GAA welcomed an approach and Sausage Rolls that it appears this alongside Aileen Cummins, and both work provision by the City Council is a very shortly be in a position to rise from the Counties and are making a significant from the Department of Health, Social programme is making an impact. hard to assist Sean Kilbride at National welcome development and we have ashes and come back bigger and stronger. impact among our young drivers in Services and Public Safety to undertake Level to implement this initiative. The a pilot programme on Defibrillator and 2011 was the most successful year of structure however still requires the CPR training. This programme has been the programme to date, with over 2000 involvement of County officers and I urge sometime in planning but we are now materials distributed and over 1890 each Ulster County to appoint an officer delighted to be in the position to have students entering the competition to support Clubs in facilitating this very 12 tutors trained to deliver AED training across each of the 6 university campuses. important programme. to Clubs. Further information was distributed to students online after the events to Alcohol and Substance Abuse The GAA community in Ulster witnessed reinforce the messages delivered on Prevention (ASAP) Programme: a number of occasions in the past year Fresher Fayre days. The ASAP programme has been in where a defibrillator was called upon existence but is at the very heart of the to assist a member in cardiac arrest. Social Initiative: GAA’s community based Health agenda. Tragically it did not save lives in each The GAA’s Social Initiative has entered Trends across the Country still reflect case but thankfully there are members it’s 3rd year and 35 Ulster Clubs are Ireland as one of the highest binge alive today as a result of a defibrillator now involved in the programme. The drinking nations in the world, whilst being present and trained users there to Social Initiative came about following drug taking continues to rise. The ASAP administer help. These incidents show an approach from Iar-Uachtarain Mary programme was established to reduce

40 Chomhairle Uladh CLG Ulster Council GAA 41 Annual Convention 2012 An Chomdhail Bhliantúil 2012

the harm caused by the abuse of Alcohol The resource also contains information In 2012, the Club Officer Development Hasson, Oliver Galligan, Martin McAviney advice and over the year we received Derry City of Culture 2013: and Drugs, and officers in Clubs and for parents and we see this as a critical Course is already being rolled out across and staff facilitators: Michelle McAleer, close to 2000 direct queries from Club Ulster GAA has a representative on the Counties across Ulster continue to strive element in ensuring that the learning in Ulster. The themes for this year’s training Stephen Donnelly, Ryan Feeney, Eugene Officials. I am happy to report that Derry City of Culture 2012 Volunteering to ensure this happens. school is continued at home. Crucially include plenary sessions on: the One Young, Aileen Cummins, Colin Regan and our Community Development staff Committee. The Committee is tasked the messages are also reinforced by the Club Model, Club Development Plans, Kieran Leddy. has supported 26 Clubs in securing with developing a strategy for volunteers I am delighted to say that each Ulster GAA coaches in schools, creating a role Discipline and Respect in the GAA Club. approximately £4.2 million of public for 2013 to include volunteer team County has an ASAP officer working modelling experience which we hope the There are five workshops as part of this Club Planning, Development investment from various government recruitment, training and promotion of diligently to ensure the implementation young children will follow as they move training including: Apply for Club Maith, and Support sources. 57 Clubs new have new Club opportunities. Ulster GAA is also working of the programme among Clubs. Many through their GAA experience. This Club Finance, Club Health Matters, Club Maith: Development plans in place with hard alongside Derry GAA to ensure that Clubs now have a Policy in place with an resource and the Council were highly Club Insurance and Designated Officer 16 Clubs achieved a level of Club Maith assistance from Ulster GAA and we have Gaelic Games and Culture are core to the officer in charge of it’s implementation. commended by past Education Minister Training in Child Protection. over the past year. I congratulate St. set a target to increase this by another City of Culture programme I commend This is a significant step in preventing Caitriona Ruane as an example of best Peter’s Warrenpoint GAA on achieving a 60 in 2012. the hard work of John Keenan and Patsy alcohol or drug related incidents occurring practice in the area. New in 2012, was the addition of a Platinum standard award in November, Mullan in securing the 2013 National in the first instance, and protecting the County Officer Network which took the Club currently is only one in the A review of the Club Maith web-site took Congress and National Scōr Final for club should they arise at any time. Club Officer Training Programme: place in St Patrick’s Grammar School in GAA to hold the highest Standard. We place over the year to ensure that all the the City and I look forward to the Ulster Last year 969 club officers attended the Armagh. This network aimed to bring have set a target for 30 more Clubs to support resources were up to date and GAA Historical Conference planned for I welcome to the Programme National annual Club Officer Training Programme together county officers to discuss timely reach a level of Club Maith during 2012 of the best standard. We currently have early 2013. All of these events will once Co-ordinator Colin Regan, who replaces which was delivered in all nine counties issues and to establish relationship and and we are already well on our way to over 8000 regular users of the Club Maith again highlight the GAA’s commitment Brendan Murphy in this role. Brendan of Ulster. The Programme has been links with officers from other counties. meeting this target. We currently have site which is an excellent resource bank to promoting a positive future for all the has established a sound base for the receiving very positive feedback from 160 people attended this session with 75 volunteer Club Maith assessors who for our Clubs and enhances the overall people within our community. programme and should enable Colin to club officials and the 2012 Programme is feedback extremely positive with many work exceptionally hard to facilitate this capacity of our Association at Club level. fit comfortably into his role. Already already well underway. county officers recommending this as a vital process with our Clubs, I am grateful Integration and Cooperation with the imaginative ‘Off the Booze, On the vital annual event. to them and our County Development Investing in Volunteers: other codes: Ball’ initiative has resulted in thousands The format for 2011 included training for Officers who coordinate this process Ulster GAA has successfully achieved the The relationship between all the of GAA members going off alcohol for club officers new to their role. This role There is a lot of hard work put into alongside Maura McMenamin leads on ‘Investing in Volunteers’ standard which Ulster Councils continues to be strong. the month of January and this type specific training includes workshops for organising the Officer Training the Club Maith project at Provincial level. recognises and promotes best practice Ulster GAA continues to progress of programme can only bring good eight club roles including Chairpersons, Programme and I acknowledge the in volunteering. Being awarded this the Integration agenda through the news to ASAP and the GAA. The ASAP Secretaries, PROs, Treasurers, Coaching efforts of the organising team led by Irish News Club and Volunteer standard is a significant achievement Provincial Integration Committee led programme, set against the backdrop Officers, Child Protection Officers, Sharon Haughey, Aileen Cummins, Maura Conference 2012: for any volunteer-led organisation but by Martin McAviney. 2012 is going to of a drinking culture in Ireland, is never Culture and Community Officers, and McMenamin, and Ryan Feeney. Thanks The fifth Irish News Club and Volunteer is all the more significant for Ulster GAA be an important year for promoting going to be an overnight success, Development Officers. In 2011 76 people also to all the facilitators who helped out Conference took place in October in as this is the first time any sporting and progressing the ‘One Club’ model however significant strides have already from across 58 clubs attended training, with workshops during 2011 and 2012 Armagh City. The Conference was again governing body has been awarded developed by the three National been made and I am confident that in in 2012 this number rose to 161 from including volunteer facilitators: Brendan a success with over 450 delegates the standard across Ireland, England, Associations but strongly based on the years to come we will see the fruits of our across 72 clubs, demonstrating the need Kirk, Mark Conway, Gerard Bradley, attending. Guest Speakers included Scotland and Wales. Club integration model that Ulster GAA labours in this area. and desire for this important training. Cliodhna Kerr, Jarlath Burns, Gerard Uachtaran Tofa Liam O’Neill and former has had in place since 2006. Ulster GAA Bradley. Staff facilitators included: Ryan Moderator of the Presbyterian Church This was a sizeable piece of work, will inform clubs on new information and Children’s Health Booklet: The Club Officer Development Course Feeney, Aileen Tohill, Sharon Haughey, of Ireland Rev. Dr. Norman Hamilton. which involved contributions of over the way forward for integration through I am delighted to welcome on board held in each of the nine counties in 2011 Maura McMenamin, Gerry McClory, Paul The event was informative, engaging 50 volunteer members of Ulster GAA the Club Officer Development Courses Airtricity as sponsors of Ulster GAA’s were exceptionally well received by all Callaghan, Diarmaid Marsden, Shane and challenging and I congratulate the Council. The process took 1.5 years held in all nine Ulster counties. Children’s Health Booklet. As a result of counties. Run on Saturday mornings McCann, Geraldine McKavanagh and Community Development Committee and was led by a Steering Committee their investment, 10,000 copies of the from January to April, 969 club officers Kathy Kelly. Chaired by Michael Hasson and the Staff appointed by Uachtarán Chomhairle The appointment of Ciaran Kearney resource will go into Primary, National attended to receive two plenary sessions led by Ryan Feeney and Aileen Cummins Uladh supported by Sharon Haughey: as Camogie Administration Officer is and Bunscoileanna across Ulster. The on ‘The self Sufficient and Stronger GAA Thanks to all those who helped out at the on organising another excellent event. Brendan Kirk, Paddy Sheanon, Kathleen a welcome development. Ciaran will resource is a fun and interactive learning Club’ and ‘Live to Play Campaign’. As 2012 County Officer Network including Woods, Cathy Gallagher, Edward Molloy, work with the Ulster Camogie Council to tool for Children to encourage them to part of this training four workshops volunteer facilitators Peter Quinn, Tom Club Planning and Support: Brian Armitage, and Catherine O’Hara. improve governance and administration live a healthy life, eating a balanced diet. were delivered on: Creating a Club Daly, Joe Passmore, Eamon McMahon, Joe Ulster GAA assisted 192 Clubs with Through this process Ulster GAA has now structures and will also have a link into It has been produced in both English Development Plan, Raising Funds in Jordan, Dan McCartan, Gerard Bradley, Club Development issues that ranged developed its policies and procedures for the overall Ulster GAA team. Ulster and as Gaeilge, ensuring that the all 2011, Applying for Club Maith and Fergus Magee, John Devaney, Miceál from funding applications support, Club volunteering including designing a new GAA continues to invest significantly education sectors can benefit from it. Child Protection. Greenan, Aogán Ó Fearghail, Michael planning and facilities development volunteer policy and handbook. in the promotion of both Camogie and

42 Chomhairle Uladh CLG Ulster Council GAA 43 Annual Convention 2012 An Chomdhail Bhliantúil 2012

Ladies Gaelic Football. Our continued This is a challenging project and robust At a strategic level a Sponsor Board MLA for her vision, determination and to maximise this wonderful and once in a Through our inputs during 2011 the commitment to the Active Communities governance and project management has very recently been established at interest in our Stadium Project and to her lifetime opportunity for the GAA in Ulster Ulster GAA Counties have largely Programme results in the employment structures have been put in place Permanent Secretary level to advise the advisors and to the DCAL departmental and also for the City of Belfast and we escaped the negative impact of recent of 11 Coaches across local government which includes:- Department on the ongoing progress support team with whom we are keen to look forward to reporting on progress at Health and Safety Audits via the MSA focused on promoting female Gaelic of the three sports projects as part of progress our plans for the delivery of the critical stages in the year ahead. reports commissioned by the National 1. The Chairman of our Stadium Project games, disability sport and recreational the overall Stadia Delivery Programme. completed stadium. Infrastructure and Safety Council. These Board, Tomás O Dalaigh is also games. I commend Sheena Kelly, Ladies Michael Hasson represents Ulster GAA at Safety Certification: reports have identified significant and designated as the Senior Responsible Gaelic Football Development Officer that level. While there is no doubt that very During the past year the engagement consistent failings in some grounds Owner (SRO) for the Project. and Active Communities Co-ordinator significant progress has been made, CLG with SportNI Overseeing Body, Local in terms of safety management 2. Ulster GAA Secretary, Donal O for commitment to the ongoing Apart from the Stadium Board, three Comhairle Uladh fully understand the Authorities and Safety Advisory Groups arrangements and/or the physical Murchu is designated as the GAA development of this programme. Workgroups are in place with a wide scale, scope and complexity of the delivery continued at pace around our 14 conditions of deteriorating venues which Investment Decision Maker (IDM) for range of expertise available. The of a capital project with a budget in the designated grounds. After some difficulty were not invested in during the ‘boom’ the Project. The Provincial Integration committee Workgroups are as follows: region of £76.4m. We are exceptionally in establishing working relationships years in the Country. 3. Ulster GAA Head of Operations continues to lead on co-operation mindful of the need to maintain the core in some areas much progress has been Stephen McGeehan is appointed as between the codes, with good work being n Community and Public Consultation business of this Council, developing and made and Stephen McGeehan and Liam In Ulster due to our strategic approach Project Sponsor (PS) for the Project and completed on match fixture clashes. - Chaired by Danny Murphy and enhancing the areas where in recent Nelis continue to lead this work with to grounds development over the past Chair of the Project Steering Group. Through the committee double-header supported by Ryan Feeney years we have added value to Clubs, energy and enthusiasm dealing with ten years and our floodlighting initiative 4. Ulster GAA Independent Technical Championship games have been made n Finance and Governance – Chaired Counties, Communities, and contributed County officials as and when required. since 2006, coupled with some financial Advisor (ITA) Tim Harkin, who as a possible and are very well received. by Peter Quinn and supported by to a better society in Ulster and on the On the note of Liam Nelis, the Council support along with our own funds we Chartered Architect was appointed Michelle McAleer Island of Ireland. wishes to convey our best wishes to Liam have been able to avoid the most serious to the project specific role in January Grounds n Planning and Design – Chaired by for a complete and speedy recovery from situations which may now bedevil some 2012 and will support the team for Tom Daly and supported by Progress to date in the past year includes: a fall prior to Christmas. of our Provincial colleagues. That said, the next three years. Major Stadium: Stephen McGeehan n July 2011: Stadia Development Comhairle Uladh will work with our Since the 2011 Convention this has The above personnel are advised and personnel in place The NCFE Level 2 training for stewards County Committees in Cavan, Donegal been an area of significant activity for supported through the structure and We are grateful for the input of Geraldine n August 2011: GAA Business continues in 2012 and will bring to over and Monaghan during early 2012 the Stadium Project Board, the Ulster membership of the following groups McKavanagh to the working of the Plan submission 500 the total number of stewards trained to ensure that plans are in place to Council, the Ulster Council Officers and established during the year:- Stadium Project Board, Project Steering n September 2011: GAA Partnership over the past number of years. We thank remediate any difficulties arising from also by our Senior Staff. By the time of Group and overall administration of the funding agreed in principle Paul Maxwell, South West College for his their MSA report recommendations the publication of this report we will have Stadium Project Board: project in moving matters forward. n October 2011: GAA Interim support in the delivery and his ongoing and put in place corrective measures cleared a number of critical milestones in Tomás O Dalaigh (Chair), Independent Technical Advisor (ITA) assessments and visits to our games to especially relating to applying moving the project forward. Aogan O Fearghail, Danny Murphy, We acknowledge the inputs of Cristóir Appointed see theory converted to practice. safety management structures and Peter Quinn, John O Reilly, Paraic Duffy, O’Cuana and Tom Ryan in deliberations n December 2011: GAA Business Plan arrangements to venue controls. Our overall ambition which has now Frankie Quinn, Michelle McAleer, at Central Council level as well as the approved by DCAL Infrastructure Projects: been approved at business plan stage Dr Eugene Young, Stephen McGeehan, wholehearted work of Paraic Duffy to n January 2012: GAA Full Time County Committees made tremendous I would place on record that the is to provide a modern and fit for Ryan Feeney and Geraldine McKavanagh. the work of Project Board. We thank Independent Technical Advisor (ITA) progress again in 2011 in the development GAA’s heretofore lack of strategy at purpose GAA Stadium at Casement Park the Antrim County Committee and Appointed of facilities with the undoubted highlight County level which enabled numerous Belfast. The design will be developed Steering Group: their Chairman Jim Murray for their n January 2012: Legal Team appointed; being the return of Armagh to the high capacity venues being built in by a procured Integrated Consultant Stephen McGeehan (Chair), Oliver engagement in important and ongoing some Stadia visits in Britain Morgan Athletic Grounds for their USFC neighbouring Counties has contributed Team (ICT) which will be procured by Galligan, Ryan Feeney, Michelle McAleer consultations and of course Frankie n February 1st 2012: GAA draft Letter Quarter Final clash with Down during to our own shortcomings in this area. In July 2012. Our Design Brief, at a very and Geraldine McKavanagh. Quinn for inputting to our Board and of Offer released the summer. This work was supported Ulster our County Grounds development high level, seeks to provide a 40,000 all Planning Committee. We are grateful n February 8th 2012: Letter of Offer by the Council and financial assistance projects were targeted at high quality seated Stadium with a minimum of 80% The groups above are populated with for the direction and advice from approved by Board of SNI and levered for various aspects via the Sport 20,000 capacities (including one main cover, 2,000 premium seats, Corporate representatives of Sport NI (Programme SportNI from CEO Eamonn McCartan, released to Ulster GAA NI funding over the previous decade. The covered stand with capacity circa 4,000) and Hospitality facilities, Community Delivery function) for the project Programme Director, Nick Harkness, n February 9th 2012: Consideration by Gaels of Armagh and in particular their which seem to have captured the public facilities, Commercial facilities and and by representatives from Central Programme Manager, Ciaran McGurk Coiste Bainistí Comhairle Uladh of County Chairman should be very proud imagination and ensured that for most Car Parking. The new facilities for our Procurement Directorate (CPD) who have and the various support staff who have Letter of Offer of their achievement in providing a high games patrons have quality covered supporters, players, management teams, been appointed by Government as the worked with us diligently on a daily basis. quality modern County facility which has accommodation. In the event that match officials and administrators will be Centre of Procurement Excellence (COPE) At Ministerial level we wish to convey our We have put in place the strategy, been very well used since last January’s Championship fixtures are played in at a very high standard. for the project. deepest appreciation to Caral Ni Chuilin, structures, staff, systems and safeguards Power NI Dr Mc Kenna Cup Final. those same venues the choice remains

44 Chomhairle Uladh CLG Ulster Council GAA 45 Annual Convention 2012 An Chomdhail Bhliantúil 2012

for price reasons for patrons to decide issues that have arisen and this includes highlighted the overuse and overtraining supported by the Department of Education support of the Coaching Committee, another successful conference. I also between seating and terracing. The a significant amount of legal advice and of young players. Talent Academies and is very highly thought of by teachers. the Coaching Officer and the County acknowledge and thank O’Neill’s for GAA psyche for capacity needs to be support to our Clubs. and Development Squads continue to County coaches continue to support the Secretary are central to this being their support. replaced by a psyche for comfort and operate at County level with lots of talent specific skills of our games at KS2. Local a success. only in strategic grounds such as Croke Coaching and Games coming through from Clubs and Schools. Councils (in some cases in association with Partnerships: Park, Provincial Venues including the new Development The challenge remains on how this talent the County Boards and Ulster GAA) are Active Communities Network: Ulster GAA are currently partnered Casement Park should we be supporting Coaching and Games Development is managed and maximised. Programmes also present in this sector through the We are now in our second year of the with the University of Ulster, Queens major capacity venues and again only on remains the core business of Ulster for coaches in both codes, have delivered Active Communities programme. Local Government Sport NI Active University Belfast and St Mary’s the basis that those venues can provide a GAA with a large portion of the Ulster what is regarded as best practice. The Communities Programme. This is University College through the high quality spectator experience for all GAA budget being spent on this area of quality of the talent and the commitment The Programme of Games in each county a partnership between Ulster GAA, employment of GAA Development our patrons. development over the last year. 2011 is evident through Feile (Clubs) and the for children and youth is essential; County Committees, Local Government Officers. They are tasked with promoting was another busy and challenging year Buncrana Cup (Development squads) and priority that these are regular with no Bodies and Sport NI that allows us all of our codes within the institutions. In terms of NISC investment projects in for all those involved in the continued subsequently County Minor and Schools long breaks and not just for a short to employ eleven GAA Development In addition Ulster GAA are partnered Regional Centres work continues at pace development of our coaching and teams. The challenge of managing this period is vital. There is a need to look Officers across Ulster focused on three through their Development Officer’s work in Dunsilly, Antrim; Owenbeg, Derry; games development programmes talent does remain high on the agenda. at indoor opportunities for football and areas of development, namely, female with Cavan and Letterkenny Institutes Convoy, Donegal and in the innovative which has seen several new innovative Research by Ulster GAA has also shown hurling throughout the winter, if we participation, disability participation of Technology. In these centres for Garvaghey Centre, Tyrone. Whilst developments tailored for amateur that the birth date of players selected stop developing over the winter months and recreational games. Ulster GAA has higher education academic courses are these projects are all unique in terms coaches and players and aimed at onto development squads has a higher then the children lose out on important committed to invest in the programme supported and GAA Coaching Awards are of specifications, funding models and improving the overall standard of our chance of being in the first half of the development work. up to 2014, so far we are exceeding our delivered to all students free of charge. ambitions the one common theme is the coaching and our games. calendar year, which raises concerns in targets in all areas and the network of We welcome the substantial input from desire by voluntary officials supported relation to our selection procedures. Quality Games are central to the GAA coaches have been an excellent addition the Universities to our overall work on by professionals to provide the best Accredited Courses: and it needs to be consolidated with to our coaching and games development behalf of the Association. possible facilities for all of our players in In 2011 Ulster GAA became an accredited Schools Programme: volunteer coaches supported to help programme. I am grateful to Sheena Kelly all codes within the clubs and counties centre with the Open College Network Secondary Schools Programmes aim to deliver a quality and fun experience for who coordinates the programme with Twinning: involved. We wish those Counties and to deliver specific GAA education develop coaching and games capacity children, youth and adults. Coaches the Regional Development Officers and The twinning work with Britain, Scotland others involved in such worthwhile programmes. Currently 35 students are in schools and in clubs; Ulster GAA at senior level need to bring the fun County Games Development Managers. and Canada has resulted in strategic capital developments and re-iterate undertaking the Performance Coaching piloted a programme within schools in back into the games and the training planning days to focus on their needs our support in whatever practical way to Programme which is pitched at Level 3 2011 to develop skills and knowledge environment. We run a great risk of O’Neill’s Coaching Conference 2012: with a view to running out a programme ensuring projects can be concluded on (A level / Leaving Certificate equivalent). around key areas that can compliment turning players off with the intensity of O’Neill’s Ulster GAA annual Coaching in 2012 and 2013. Programme delivery time, within budget and to specifications The programme is designed to reward curriculum work but that have a practical the preparation programmes and the and Games Conference 2012 now requires finance and support and as it is set out by those involved. Should volunteer hours within the club. A application. Workshops in video analysis, demands being placed on players during in its seventh year took place at the National Policy to support the overseas all go according to plan three of the management programme at the same conditioning, nutrition and fitness the season. Coaches should remember end of January, in the Glenavon Hotel, groups, the financial support for such aforementioned sites should be open to level will be launched in 2012 following testing were delivered and subsequently that players are “volunteers” and the Cookstown. The theme of this year’s overseas development is required some degree later in 2012 and we share a successful pilot. The new Managers these young people delivered sessions coaches need to set training loads and conference was ‘Education and club links through National budgets. the excitement of each County in seeing course will aim at enhancing the with their school teams and their clubs. frequency of training in this respect. in Gaelic Games’. The conference was the fruits of their labour. management skills of team Managers and A significant development in this sector well attended with up to 350 delegates The Coaching and Games Development Coaches. This offers significant challenges has been the engagement with the County Staff: having attended; the conference Committee continues to provide The work of the Club Planning and with an external agency quality assuring Integrated schools, with a number of The County Games Development highlighted the importance of embracing direction and foresight in this critical Physical Development Committee under the delivery of programmes. blitzes at various age groups being Managers role is important and needs across all age groups. Guest Speakers area of our Associations affairs. The the Chairmanship of Dan McCartan must supported and delivered by Ulster GAA. the support from the County Board included Minister for Education John committee is led by Chairman Gerard be acknowledged this committee is Coaching Workshops and Talent ID: representatives to do the job. There are O’Dowd, Sean McElhatton and Sean Bradley and Secretary Brendan McGeary, very active and provides our Clubs with Coaching workshops continue to The presence of the Primary Schools a lot of stakeholders who contribute Dempsey. Ulster GAA recognises and we are deeply indebted to them both support and advice on a wide range of be popular and high performance Programme raises the profile of the GAA finance towards the employment of staff: values the huge contribution that for their enthusiasm and dedication in matters. We thank the Cathaoirleach workshops in association with the in this sector. The challenge always is the Sport NI, Irish Sports Council, Central education plays in the support and this field; and to the other members of and members of the Committee along Sports Institute have targeted medical transfer of children from the school to Council, Ulster GAA, Local Councils and development of our games and it is the Committee who work diligently in with the County Development Officers, staff with County teams and delivered the club. The KS1 programme delivering Local Sports Partnerships. The role of aware of the changing environment support of the Committee and we thank Paul Sanders, Maura McMenamin and advice and guidance on groin injuries. fundamental movement skills in schools the Games Development Managers is within education, I thank the Coaching them for their efforts. We are well served Ryan Feeney for their dedication and These findings have been fed back to and tying in with the Gaelic Start line mange and ensure maximum return and Games Development Committee and by our Coaching personnel and this is commitment in dealing with all of these coaches at the Annual Conference and programme in the clubs continues to be from this significant investment. The staff for their contribution in organising strategically deployed by Eugene Young

46 Chomhairle Uladh CLG Ulster Council GAA 47 Annual Convention 2012 An Chomdhail Bhliantúil 2012

to ensure that our games are at the relationship with the Cardinal Tomas We pay tribute to those who assist the vetting checks on behalf of counties, media networks have served Ulster The production of a Sponsorship forefront of everything we do. We also O Fiaich Memorial Library and Archive. Coiste in the running of the events, the clubs and associated bodies in Ulster; GAA well in promoting its message and brochure and an improved engagement acknowledge the work undertaken by the The Archive holds all the minutes of the competitors, adjudicators and host clubs to date over 9,500 vetting applications activities and in 2012 we have plans with the private sector has resulted in County Games Development Managers Ulster Council since its foundation in guided diligently by Miceál Ó Grianain across the nine counties have been to extend this provision even further. Ulster GAA developing new partnerships and the governance role that is central 1903. Thanks to public funding secured and Fearghas MacAoidh. processed. This process remains The monthly online newsletter which and sustaining current partnerships to the delivery of the overall Games by Ulster GAA in cooperation with the significant in the recruitment process promotes the good work of Ulster with sponsors. I am grateful to: Power Development programme of the GAA. Croke Park museum we have been able Code of Ethics and for all those working/volunteering with Council through all Committees and NI, O’Neills, Glenavon Hotel, Squareball, to digitise the entire collection, this Good Practice Children and Vulnerable Adults in Ulster; departments now has a circulation of BBC, Belfast Health Trust, Quinn’s Gaeilge agus Oidhreachta is significant progress and a welcome This facet of our work continues to place this is a legal requirement and as such close to 8000. Corner, UTV, Irish News, Phoenix Gas and Cúrsa Sheamas de Faoite marked it’s development in our efforts to gather ongoing demands on this Committee it is Comhairle Uladh policy that anyone for their continued support of 23rd year in existence in 2011 and once and secure all the historical documents and all those involved in working working with children or vulnerable The GAA e-mail system continues Ulster GAA. again was an excellent success. Taking relevant to the GAA in Ulster. Three with Children and Vulnerable adults adults must be vetted. to improve and provide an essential place in Downings, Co. Donegal on the digitised copies have been produced and throughout the Association. Policies tool in the ongoing development of Media week following the Ulster Final, numbers one copy will each be held by COFLA, the and procedures are continually being Training and Awareness workshops an information network for the entire We continue to work with all media to attending were maintained and those GAA museum and in Ceannarás Uladh. developed to meet with the requirements continue to be delivered throughout Association. The fixtures system is now promote our Games and activities to the who did attend benefited hugely from It is our hope to be in a position to put in order to comply with current the Province. At this time there are over in place in most counties and is again public, Ulster GAA has to balance the the course. As is tradition Uachtaran in place a phased process of digitising legislations. Following the completion of 24,500 members who have availed of the providing to be a positive. I recognise and promotion of our Games alongside our Chomhaire Uladh, Aogan ó Fearghail, was the Ulster County Minutes over the next the annual SportNI safeguarding in sport awareness training in Ulster. Training and thank Damian Kelly for this hard work considerable Community development role present at the course and his attendance number of years subject to funding. Our audit assessment process, Chomhairle Awareness Workshops are essential for and effort in all these areas. and public standing. While on occasions and support is reflective of the importance three year funding partnership with Uladh received an overall assurance level members who have access to children Ulster GAA would strongly disagree with that the Council places on this Irish COFLA is now at end and something that for 2010 – 2011 of Satisfactory. and vulnerable adults to ensure that Following an open tender competition some of the view points expressed by Language course. The Downings course is is currently under review. An application our members are trained and meet the Lairdesign have been reappointed as elements of the media we endeavour to a truely wonderful week and does honour has been submitted to the Heritage In 2011 GAA Annual Congress adopted standards that are laid down. our Marketing and Design consultants treat them fairly and deal with problems to the memory to Seamas de Faoite. Lottery Fund to extend the enhance a motion directing that each County for the next four years. Niall Laird has or issues in a professional way. Significant praise must go to Nollaig the project. I would like to record my Board and Club shall in future select a We acknowledge the work carried out done excellent work for the Association MacCumhaill and his steering committee thanks to both Roddy Hegarty (Director Children’s Officer. Congress also decided by our Code of Ethics Committee under in both a professional and volunteer In general Ulster GAA has a good for their work in the organisation of this COFLA) and Dr. Donal McAnallen for their to abolish the role of Youth Officer, thus the leadership of Pat Darcy, Chairman capacity and has improved the overall relationship with the media and it course, not least to Tomas ó Cuilinn continued commitment to the project. allowing, where applicable, for both roles and Gerry Soden, Secretary who have brand and image of not just Ulster GAA remains strong and I recognise the whose tireless work ensures the continued to be subsumed into one, that of the shown great direction continually but other units of the Association, I wish ongoing support that we receive from success of the course to which he is a Scór agus Cultúr Children’s Officer. The County Children’s ensuring matters are addressed, dealt him and his team well and I look forward Paraic Duffy, Lisa Clancy and Peter founding member. I wish the Course well Scór and Scór na nÓg competitions Officer shall be appointed (not elected) with and carried forward. The ongoing to continuing the good work. The Staff McKenna when dealing with these issues. in 2012 and look forward to marking it’s continue to promote the cultural aspect at the Annual County Convention on the support and assistance from our National Communications and Marketing team I would also recognise the retirement of 25th anniversary in 2013. of our Association. Those involved with recommendation of the outgoing County Children’s Officer throughout the year led by Ryan Feeney has undertaken Dermot Power who dealt with many of Scór and Scór na nÓg demonstrate a Committee. Similarly a Children’s Officer Gearoid Ó Maoilmhichíl at National an overall review of marketing and these matters in the past and wish him I commend Coiste Cathaoirleach huge level of enthusiastic dedication shall be appointed at the Club Annual Level has been extremely helpful and commercial activities and put in place well in the future. Sean Ó Duibheannaigh for his work in and commitment. Levels of interest General Meeting on the recommendation we express our thanks to him. We also new marketing campaigns for the Ulster overseeing the language and heritage and participation continue to increase of the outgoing Executive Committee. recognise the input of Access NI and Club Championship and the Power NI The level of coverage of all our work of Chomhaire Uladh and to all the and we must acknowledge the work Each appointed Children’s Officers shall Garda Vetting Unit for their assistance in McKenna Cup. Both these campaigns competitions has improved but there committee members who serve the of the committee in this regard. We hold office until the conclusion of the this area of our work. have been an outstanding success and is still room for some improvement Council and their Counties so well in the must maintain the promotion of this next Annual Convention/Annual General we hope put the knowledge gained from when it comes to both Ulster Under promotion of these important aspects area of our work to raise the levels of Meeting. At County level the Children’s Marketing, Public Relations and both competitions to good effect for 21 Championship, the Ulster Club of Irish culture. 2012 will present many involvement in this cultural and heritage Officer shall be an Officer of the County Commercial Activities the 2012 Championship. I would like Championship and the McKenna Cup. I exciting opportunities to further this side of our Association and build on its Committee while the Club Children’s 2011 seen significant and positive to thank Ryan Feeney, Damian Kelly, would recognise both UTV and BBC who work and I wish the committee well in expansion of those who participate in it. Officer shall be a member of the Club developments on the Marketing and Sharon Haughey, Bernie Fox, Jimmy continue to improve their coverage of their work which is of critical importance Executive Committee. Public Relations front for Ulster GAA. Darragh, Ciaran Kearney, Sheena Kelly Gaelic Games and I pay tribute to the to the Council and the GAA in general. We are indebted to all involved in Immense credit is due to the Council PRO and Stephen Donnelly who all play journalists, photographers, production Scór to the Coiste for their work in the As a registered body with AccessNI Oliver Galligan and the PR, Marketing important roles in the Communication personnel for all their coverage, before, COFLA Partnership organising and running of Scór and Scór and the Garda Central Vetting Unit, and IT Committee. The ongoing and Marketing team. during and after our games. I would again We continue to enjoy a strong na nÓg events throughout the year. Chomhairle Uladh continues to carry out development of our web-site and social recognise the Irish News and thank them

48 Chomhairle Uladh CLG Ulster Council GAA 49 Annual Convention 2012 An Chomdhail Bhliantúil 2012

for their excellent GAA coverage and development has also been strongly and Leisure and wish her the very best of Stadium Sponsor Board. We are indebted We are also grateful to the members deeply appreciative to Geraldine for her their support for the Club and Volunteer advanced through our engagements achievement during her term in office. to him for all his work on our behalf. of the Hearings Committee for their integrity, loyalty and professionalism, for Conference, Club and Volunteer Awards with Churches, representative bodies fortitude and availability in resolving which I am indebted. and Ulster All-Stars. and non Departmental Public Bodies. We are indebted to Aogan ó Fearghail, Our OCP, Oileabhar ó Gealagain has these important matters on an ongoing The continued work is ensuring that our Uachtaran, for his leadership and he continued to ensure that our work and basis for our membership and our All of the staff of Ulster GAA are Provincial Council Association is part of the future plans has been totally dedicated to the work affairs are adequately portrayed in the constituent units. We are also grateful to enthusiastic, hard working and give During the past year there have been for the development of a shared future of the Council. He has given generously media. He has dealt very efficiently Damian Kelly in servicing the work of the generously of their time in the interests many challenges faced by the Council based on mutual understanding and of his time in the best traditions of the with the various issues and statements Committee and to Bernie Fox who had an of the GAA in Ulster in both volunteer early in the year we became aware respect. During the year the Association Association in Ulster. He has worked that have arisen in a most efficient and involvement in the early part of the year. and professional capacities and for their that a final decision on the Major appointed three people to engage with diligently at National level on several positive manner. He has also worked to efforts, dedication and loyalty, I record Stadia was imminent. This in turn led aspects of future planning and this will Committees and he has been a solid market our games and activities in a very Stephen Donnelly gives a tremendous my sincere appreciation. to a substantial restructuring of the be taken forward in the year ahead. representative on Coiste Bainisti effective manner and has overseen the service to our Coiste Cheannais na operation work of the Ulster Council. Naisunta and Ard Comhairle. He has utilisation of modern media to ensure that Chomortaisi, the Counties, Referees, the Association Issues There was initial examinations of what The work and support of Irish Sports represented the Council across a diverse our people are informed. We thank Oliver Clubs and to other fixture making bodies The Association continued to develop was needed to include the additional Councils, Sport NI, the Departments of list of functions and events and in all for his tremendous work on our behalf. as required. His detailed report on our on many fronts and this is exemplified work involved with the Casement Park Education, the Department of Culture, these he has exuded the leadership of a Fixtures is a very valuable resource in by the growth in communications to Project in addition to the ongoing work Arts and Leisure, the Department of vibrant and confident organisation. We The members of the Ulster Council give the overall assessment of the delivery all of our constituent units and the being undertaken in connection with Social Development, the Department thank Aogan for his work on our behalf generously of their time and provide of our Games programme and we are direct engagement with our democratic the our strategic development plan. of Agriculture and Rural Development, and for his support across the full spectre a substantial service to the overall well served by his total commitment structure. This is of itself a very welcome The re-organisation was approved the Department of Community, Rural of our activity in Ulster. workings of the GAA in Ulster. They and dedication. Bernie Fox, who now development in ascertaining the views of in May and was operational from the and Gaeltacht Affairs, the Department operate across the administration of acts a servicing Officer for our Coiste the Association on matters of policy and beginning of July. Suffice to record that of Tourism and Sport, the Department Mairtin Mac Aibhne, Leas-Uachtaran, our affairs to supporting the operational Bainistíochta has been a tremendous administration. It needs to be utilised since then we have maintained our for Foreign Affairs, the North/ South has also been an important part of requirements on match days. We are support in the outworking of this by our membership to ensure that we core work while at the same time have Ministerial Council and all political the work of Comhairle Uladh. He has indebted to the members for their very vital Committee in the affairs of maintain our cohesive approach to the met all the challenges placed before parties, who have been encouraging given generously of his time and has dedication, work and support throughout Chomhairle Uladh. constant development of the GAA. The us in connection with the stadium. us in the work that we are doing is played a very important part of the the year. Micheal MacCraith leaves the recent leaking of a working document This has only been possible by the acknowledged and appreciated. The administration of our affairs. He is the Council at Convention and he has and Kathy Kelly acts as servicing officer to on team managers was an abuse of our dedication of the Officers, Members, sub GAA continues to be relevant in its time. Chairman of Coiste Forbartha Iomana continues, to serve the wider GAA to a the Senior Staff Team of Eugene Young democratic process as the issues were committees and staff working cohesively The role of SportNI in several areas of and has ensured that the interests high standard for which we thank him. (Coaching and Games) Michelle McAleer still under discussion and may or may not for the common good. It needs to be work including the Stadium Project and of hurling are adequately provided (Finance, HR and Business Development) have emerged as policy document for a understood that the critical work is in governance has led to a close working for including the introduction of the The Stadium Project Board has had a Ryan Feeney (Community, Strategy and decision by our Association. The abuse support of our Clubs and Counties in the relationship in several key areas. We are Tain League. He has also continued very busy year, the Committee is lead Public Affairs) and Stephen McGeehan of our structures weakens the whole tremendous work that they do. We are grateful to all of the staff at SportNI with as Cathaoirleach of the Integration by Iar Uachtaran Tomas ó Dalaigh with (Stadium Development). The Senior Staff organisation. There is a need to ensure more effective working for the greater whom we work with particular reference Committee and has worked diligently distinction. There were many hurdles to Team has ensured that the operational that our membership operate within good of our Association in a unified and to Nick Harkness, Carl Southern and to ensure that the continuing work of get over and deadlines to be met and work is carried out as agreed by Coiste their Club and County Committee and structured manner. Ciaran McGurk. We also acknowledge integration continues to be advanced. we are still moving forward towards Bainistíochta. We are indebted to all of help create a view that pressure groups and thank Eamonn McCartan, Chief We acknowledge his work and we thank achieving our objective by 2015 and them for their outstanding efforts on and single issue agendas are not the way We have continued our engagement with Executive of SportNI, for all his work and his input to the affairs of the GAA. we are grateful to Tom and the Project behalf of the GAA in Ulster. forward for the GAA. external groups, bodies and agencies. his consideration of the issues that arise Board for their ongoing exemplary work We continue to advance the agenda from time to time. We are also grateful Micheal ó hOsain has been a very on this project. Geraldine McKavanagh has continued The document on Team Managers is a that our Association is at the centre for the work of the Chairman of SportNI, active Officer and has given excellent to service the work with our County discussion that now needs to examined of community life. We have portrayed Dominic Walsh and thank him for his support to the work of the Council and Nollaig Mac Cumhaill and Eamonn Secretaries as well as her work as and the ultimate issue for the GAA is the scope of our Clubs and to this end support. Our appreciation is also due to in particular to the financial aspects of Mac Mathuna who are Chairman and Child Officer. Geraldine has also been whether we remain amateur or not. It we have been recognised for Valuing the various staff of the Department of our work. He has acted as Cathaoirleach Secretary respectively of our Hearings assigned to be the Administrator of all is time to decide if we want to operate Volunteers Programme. It needs to Culture, Arts and Leisure who has worked of our Finance Committee and they have Committee and have carried out a of the structures in conjunction with within the established Central Council be emphasised that we through our diligently with us in dealing with the worked diligently to ensure that good tremendous amount of work and who the Stadium including servicing the scales of expenses or not. There are constituent units deliver the ingredients matters that arise from time to time. We governance is at the centre of the work have dealt with the delivery of our Stadium Project Board while at the same many coaches and managers that that build strong and sustainable also welcome one of our own, Charal Ni of the Council and also our Counties. He appeals and disciplinary process in a time is a tremendous support to me in operate within our guidelines and the society. The work of community Chulin as the Minister of Culture, Arts also represents Comhairle Uladh on the most efficient and considered manner. the work that I do and for which I am question that must be addressed is will

50 Chomhairle Uladh CLG Ulster Council GAA 51 Annual Convention 2012 An Chomdhail Bhliantúil 2012

the Association be better in remaining During the past year we interacted with We acknowledge the excellent working to Jim McGuigan a member of Watty the unstinting loyalty and dedication he to be recognised as a critical element amateur? I believe that the motivation many of the leaders of our society but arrangements between Comhairle Uladh Grahams Maghera, his service to the GAA had to our Association. The loss of each of our future development. It is an and dedication of our voluntary workers the recent visit of the First Minister, Peter and Ard Comhairle. There are proper knew no bounds. He had been thirty two person is worthy of our sympathy and organisation that is rooted in our sense is a testament to the fact that the local Robinson was an historic occasion. The engagements between key personnel years as Treasurer in Doire and six years respect. Our sympathy is extended to all and pride of place. The idealism that sense and pride of place is greater attendance of the First and Deputy First at National level and the respective as Cisteoir of Comhairle Uladh, he was the the bereaved families, friends and to the drove our Association from its inception than any demand for diminution of our Minister to the Power NI Dr. McKenna Cup personnel at Provincial level have been embodiment of a true GAA volunteer. extended GAA family who have lost loved is still relevant today. We should be a amateur ethos. Final at the Morgans Athletic Grounds mutually beneficial. This has ensured that ones, people who have been part of our unitary organisation built on the whole was a firm indication that adversaries there are clear avenues to allow for proper The death of Leo Burns also took from Association as players, officials, referees family for the whole life. The threats There has been issues of indiscipline can countenance a shared future based planning and delivery of programmes our midst another person who had given and administrators. We are a better to this are within our midst. Pressure emerging that involve supporters of our on mutual understanding and respect. within the defined parameters. These tremendous service to his Club, and organisation for their involvement and their groups and single agenda bodies are not teams and there has even been calls for Indeed, if respect became the central arrangements are replicated at Ulster was a former Runai of Choiste Chontae legacy is the Association we cherish today. compatible with the greater good for segregation of spectators attending our plank of the future engagement then the level with our Counties and constituent Mhuineachan. We also saw the demise of greatest number ethos that has taken games. We already have in place the future could be better, bright and above all units. I would like to thank the staff Emmett Nugent who was from Keady and The Sacrifice of the Mass will be offered us from ambitious beginnings to today Safety at Sports Grounds and this was beneficial for all of the people of Ireland. at Central Level for their help and Fred Ruth from Kilanney. All four named for all the deceased members of our where we are central part of our Irish way augmented by the Justice Bill 2011. We cooperation and would particularly gave a lifetime of service to the GAA and Association in St. Mary’ University of life. In the future we can continue to argued strongly for self regulation and The input by our constituent units like to acknowledge the assistance of to their local community. They were also College Chapel on the morning of develop and progress so long as we put the need to provide for a vast number of continues to impress and the improved Tom Ryan, Dermot Power, Pat Daly, part of our team of stiles men for many Convention at 11.00 a.m. It is hoped that the primary interests of the GAA at the games while ensuring the overall safety operational arrangements between Peter McKenna and Lisa Clancy for their years. They were all great men and we will all delegates can attend as a mark of centre of everything we do. of everyone attending. We do need the various levels has improved our work. We also thank Ronan Murphy, miss them greatly. There were many other respect for all our deceased members. to be clear that public safety is legally cohesiveness, our ability to plan Kieran Leddy and Fergal McGill for their sad occasions for our Association including Is mise, le meas, enforceable and we do need to take effectively and to deliver the necessary assistance in specific fields of operation. the death of Martin Mulholland who died Conclusion Dónall Ó Murchú, appropriate steps to have a proper and outcomes that are essential for future while refereeing a game demonstrated The motivation of our Association needs Rúnaí, Chomhairle Uladh respectful environment for the playing development of our Association. We We acknowledge the huge amount of our games. The GAA is opposed to the could do even better if we dealt with work, guidance and support delivered entrapment of GAA Clubs inside the some of the issues within the structures by our Ard Stiurthoir, Paraic O Dufaigh, scope of the Justice Bill as the significance of the GAA rather than at times seemly who has been a tremendous source of of the Designated Stand is relevant attacking our own organisation. I know encouragement while at the same time to the capacity of it and has no other that we all are passionate about the GAA he has provided tremendous leadership function other than to establish that such but we need to work together in building to our Association that has ensured structures must be licensed by the relevant a stronger and vibrant Association. that the issues are properly discussed Local Authority and are fit for purpose. It and that proper and effective decisions should be understood that this applies to The working arrangements between are made. We also record our thanks to grounds that are not Designated under the Comhairle Uladh and the Counties and Cristeoir O Cuana, who concludes his Safety At Sports Grounds Legislation. Clubs have been very solid and this has term as president of our Association. We been typified by the support evident acknowledge the dedication and input The Ulster Final was again attended by throughout Ulster on a wide range he has brought to the post and we thank President Mary McAleese and Dr. Martin of matters. The meeting with County him for his work on behalf of the GAA. We McAleese. They have attended many Chairmen, Secretaries, Treasurers and welcome Liam O Neill as the incoming of our games and great occasions, and Games Development Managers plus the President and look forward to working represented the office of President with Sub Committees and their interaction closely with him in the next three years. distinction. They have always treated with the current issues and the efficient the GAA with great respect and have flow of information can only be beneficial Comhbhrón honoured the Ulster GAA to a very high to the GAA in general and to the work of The past year has again witnessed the degree. We thank Mary and Martin our Clubs and Counties in particular. We death of our members and the tragic McAleese for their work, encouragement acknowledge the tremendous work and consequences that this has for all be they and support over the past fourteen years. commitment of our County Chairmen, family, friends, club or the Association as We are proud of our President and also of Secretaries, Treasurers and all the County a whole. There have been many occasions Martin for their tremendous leadership of Officers in delivering the key elements of where we have felt the sense of loss most our Country and particularly of its people. our Association work within Ulster. acutely. This year we wished farewell

52 Chomhairle Uladh CLG Ulster Council GAA 53