A message from the Provincial Secretary

These are extraordinary times; not just for the GAA but for society as a whole. Not since 1918 has the world witnessed a pandemic of such proportions.  The overwhelming desire of all is that we will overcome this invisible destroyer and that we will learn whatever lessons we can in order to minimise the risk of such an occurrence happening again.

We are having to come to terms with a new way of life – it’s how we adjust to this ‘new normal’ that will determine for how long!  While there are many more immediate priorities, we all look forward to a day when training and games can resume.  That’s one thing that will keep us going through the current crisis.

As you are well aware, on Friday 13^th March, the GAA suspended all activity until Sunday 29^th March. Earlier this week this was extended until Sunday 19th April.   The Celtic Challenge and all Inter-County Academy competitions have been pulled. On Wednesday 25^th March all clubs were instructed to close their facilities immediately, including walking tracks.  I’m aware that many people will in particular be disappointed with the closure of the walking tracks but in order to comply with the enhanced restrictions on social gatherings as announced by the British and Irish Governments’ on 23^rd and 24^th March respectively, there was realistically no other choice available to the Association.

I commend the efforts of the countless volunteers in our clubs and counties who have risen to the challenge in recent weeks and selflessly given of their time to assist the most vulnerable in our communities.  There is no better example of the GAA’s community ethos.

GAA clubs and counties across Ulster have been at the forefront of community efforts to help those most in need and marginalised.  We’ve seen GAA facilities in counties Cavan, Donegal and Monaghan either being used, or about to be used, for Covid-19 testing purposes.  The role which our volunteers will continue to play in the coming weeks will be even greater.  The GAA is engaging with both Governments’ at the highest levels, with Ulster GAA being a key component – along with our colleagues in the Irish Football Association and Ulster Rugby – in the Executive’s Contingency Planning arrangements.

This weekend Croke Park should have been gearing up to host the Allianz Football League finals. Clubs across the country would have been preparing for the beginning of the Club Month and our games would have been front and centre in every parish in the province.  Alas, a very different picture prevails.

The impact of Coronavirus on our fixture schedules has already been felt. One such measure has been the cancellation of both Feile Competitions, which were scheduled for June.  The Féile Peile na nÓg was due to have been hosted in counties Derry, Donegal and Tyrone and I’m fully aware of the many preparations that had already been made.  The decision to cancel was not taken lightly by the National Committee but it was one that was necessary, particularly given the format of Feile, which is predicated on visiting children staying with host families.  This decision has allowed the teams at Access NI and the Garda Vetting Unit to prioritise the processing of checks for staff returning to work in the Health and Social Care Trusts and in the HSE.

When the crisis eventually subsides, and it will subside, we will all look forward to getting back to our games. Over the coming days and weeks there will be more announcements and work will continue to ensure that we can hit the ground running when this day comes.  That date will however be essentially determined by us and us alone.  The better we adhere to the restrictions on staying at home, social distancing, washing hands and the other measures, the earlier we will return to action.  And, of course, we want all of our loved ones to still be with us so they can enjoy the games when they resume, so please adhere to the current ‘rules.’ Unpalatable as they may be, they are for the benefit of all of us.

This newsletter will give you some insight into the financial assistance available for clubs and it will include tips on volunteering for all your members. There is also be information on how your club can use this period to get involved in the Club Maith Scheme or how you can make use of the Ulster GAA Club Support Programme.  I hope you find it both useful and informative.

I thank you for your ongoing tolerance, support and understanding.  Make no mistake, we will get through this, together.

Ní neart go cur le chéile – There is no strength without unity.

Brian McAvoy

Rúnaí, Chomhairle Uladh CLG