Sectarianism in the GAA is 'utterly wrong'

THE Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) yesterday hit out at sectarian abuse within the sport.

The sporting body issued its condemnation after Protestant player Darren Graham (25) from Lisnaskea, Co Fermanagh, had sensationally announced he was quitting the game over sectarian abuse by rival players.

The Lisnaskea Emmetts hurler claimed that he was giving up the sport altogether because of persistent sectarian abuse from certain players who were members of three clubs in particular.

Yesterday, a GAA spokesman said sectarian abuse or comment went completely against the rules of the association and was regarded as a very serious matter.

Serious

"This is the first time we have been made aware of an incident of this nature," he said.

"It is very serious and it is something we utterly condemn," the spokesman added.

Under normal procedures, a complaint would be made in the first instance to the player's own club which would then refer it to the county board.

"We have full confidence in Fermanagh Co Board to exercise their responsibilities. If and when a complaint is made it will be fully investigated."

Fermanagh Co Board spokesperson Deirdre Donnelly said no official complaint from the player or his club has yet been received.

Complaint

"If a complaint is made it will be investigated and taken very seriously," she said. "We reiterate we are totally opposed to any abuse of players, officials or referees and take all allegations very, very seriously."

Last night it was confirmed that Graham's club Lisnaskea Emmetts will be lodging a full complaint to the county board on behalf of the player in the next day or two.

A source said the process would be monitored "from the highest level" in GAA headquarters.