Menu
18/10/2013
Robinson Commends GAA 'Peace Keeping' Role
The Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) has played an important role in 'peace-building' in Northern Ireland, according to First Minister Peter Robinson.
The DUP leader was the keynote speaker at the Co-Operation Ireland dinner in Queen’s University yesterday evening.
Mr Robinson paid tribute to the Co-Operation Ireland, a cross-border, cross community charity, saying it played a "very positive role" in the peace process.
"It is a sign of just how much things have changed that the GAA plays such a positive role as a delivery partner in this worthwhile project," he said.
"I believe that this programme is making a real contribution to the lives of young people in the Province and I believe that the buy-in of the GAA ensures that it has a reach right across the community.
"In the last few years Co-Operation Ireland has celebrated the role of rugby and football in peace-building and it is fitting that tonight we very publicly acknowledge the important role of the GAA. It is a testament to the progress that we have all made that tonight we can acknowledge the GAA’s role in peace-building by inviting a First Minister from the unionist tradition to the lectern.
"Not so many years ago it would have been unimaginable that I would have been invited to speak at an event of this kind - or that I would have accepted."
The First Minister said all three prominent sports organisations, the GAA, Ulster Rugby and the Irish Football Association (IFA) had made "a real contribution" to Northern Ireland society.
He continued: "I am entirely convinced that a shared and united society in Northern Ireland is the only way forward for all of us. Our challenge must be to make what is often merely a sound-bite into a meaningful reality.
"The task for politicians and indeed wider society is to reach out beyond what has been seen as 'our own community'. It’s always easier and more comfortable to retreat to safe and familiar ground, but that’s not the ground upon which progress will be made."
Mr Robinson concluded: "That is why I am publicly acknowledging the contribution that the GAA has been making towards this goal and I am confident that the work the organisation has done, and continues to do, will play a very significant role in the years to come in building a better and brighter future."
(IT/MH)
The DUP leader was the keynote speaker at the Co-Operation Ireland dinner in Queen’s University yesterday evening.
Mr Robinson paid tribute to the Co-Operation Ireland, a cross-border, cross community charity, saying it played a "very positive role" in the peace process.
"It is a sign of just how much things have changed that the GAA plays such a positive role as a delivery partner in this worthwhile project," he said.
"I believe that this programme is making a real contribution to the lives of young people in the Province and I believe that the buy-in of the GAA ensures that it has a reach right across the community.
"In the last few years Co-Operation Ireland has celebrated the role of rugby and football in peace-building and it is fitting that tonight we very publicly acknowledge the important role of the GAA. It is a testament to the progress that we have all made that tonight we can acknowledge the GAA’s role in peace-building by inviting a First Minister from the unionist tradition to the lectern.
"Not so many years ago it would have been unimaginable that I would have been invited to speak at an event of this kind - or that I would have accepted."
The First Minister said all three prominent sports organisations, the GAA, Ulster Rugby and the Irish Football Association (IFA) had made "a real contribution" to Northern Ireland society.
He continued: "I am entirely convinced that a shared and united society in Northern Ireland is the only way forward for all of us. Our challenge must be to make what is often merely a sound-bite into a meaningful reality.
"The task for politicians and indeed wider society is to reach out beyond what has been seen as 'our own community'. It’s always easier and more comfortable to retreat to safe and familiar ground, but that’s not the ground upon which progress will be made."
Mr Robinson concluded: "That is why I am publicly acknowledging the contribution that the GAA has been making towards this goal and I am confident that the work the organisation has done, and continues to do, will play a very significant role in the years to come in building a better and brighter future."
(IT/MH)
Related Northern Ireland News Stories
Click here for the latest headlines.
05 April 2024
Ulster GAA Backs NI Road Safety Campaign
Ulster GAA has announced it support for the 'Share the Road to Zero' campaign, pledging its commitment to improving road safety. The Northern Ireland Football League, PSNI, Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service and councils are among other organisations that have signed up to the campaign.
Ulster GAA Backs NI Road Safety Campaign
Ulster GAA has announced it support for the 'Share the Road to Zero' campaign, pledging its commitment to improving road safety. The Northern Ireland Football League, PSNI, Northern Ireland Ambulance Service, Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service and councils are among other organisations that have signed up to the campaign.
30 March 2022
Sports Stars Help McDonald's Launch Anti-Littering Initiative
International rugby star Jacob Stockdale and Antrim GAA hurler Neil McManus have joined McDonald's to help launch their new 'Keep it Clean' campaign, aimed at tackling litter in parks, on paths and along roadsides.
Sports Stars Help McDonald's Launch Anti-Littering Initiative
International rugby star Jacob Stockdale and Antrim GAA hurler Neil McManus have joined McDonald's to help launch their new 'Keep it Clean' campaign, aimed at tackling litter in parks, on paths and along roadsides.
15 January 2020
Communities Minister: Casement Park Is A Key Priority
Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey has identified the completion of Casement Park as a "key priority" for her department. Deirdre Hargey MLA met with Ulster GAA officials at the west Belfast site to discuss furthering the project. Minister Hargey said she is determined to see the project started as soon as possible.
Communities Minister: Casement Park Is A Key Priority
Communities Minister Deirdre Hargey has identified the completion of Casement Park as a "key priority" for her department. Deirdre Hargey MLA met with Ulster GAA officials at the west Belfast site to discuss furthering the project. Minister Hargey said she is determined to see the project started as soon as possible.
24 October 2016
Ulster GAA Reveals Plans For New Stadium
Ulster GAA has revealed plans for its new stadium at Casement Park in west Belfast. The new scheme developed by architects Populous plans to transform Casement Park with an enhanced atmosphere and iconic new stadium bowl.
Ulster GAA Reveals Plans For New Stadium
Ulster GAA has revealed plans for its new stadium at Casement Park in west Belfast. The new scheme developed by architects Populous plans to transform Casement Park with an enhanced atmosphere and iconic new stadium bowl.
03 June 2013
Shadow Secretary Hails 'Vibrant' L'Derry
Shadow NI Secretary of State Vernon Coaker has hailed L'Derry for its "beauty and vibrancy" on a tour of the city at the weekend. SDLP Foyle MP Mark Durkan joined the Shadow Secretary and his wife on a tour of Derry, during which the couple attended their first GAA match and cheered on runners in the Walled City Marathon.
Shadow Secretary Hails 'Vibrant' L'Derry
Shadow NI Secretary of State Vernon Coaker has hailed L'Derry for its "beauty and vibrancy" on a tour of the city at the weekend. SDLP Foyle MP Mark Durkan joined the Shadow Secretary and his wife on a tour of Derry, during which the couple attended their first GAA match and cheered on runners in the Walled City Marathon.
-
Northern Ireland WeatherToday:A showery start with outbreaks most frequent north of Lough Neagh and through the morning, before dwindling during the afternoon as the northwest breezes ease and brighter spells of weak sunshine prosper. Maximum temperature 8 °C.Tonight:A dry night, save for a few light showers around the coasts, with prolonged clear spells and light winds bringing a frosty dawn for many in central and southern parts. Minimum temperature -3 °C.
