The GAA President John Horan has condemned the recent spate of violent exchanges which have occurred during a variety of club games across the country.
In an address to be relayed in the GAA Club Newsletter, Horan was vociferous in his criticism of the 'few, but few too many' examples of violence occurring throughout the club championship.
Most recently, a semi-final tie in the Kerry club championship was marred by scenes of violence as Dingle took on East Kerry. One of many such instances captured and relayed on social media in the recent weeks and months, the involvement of a Dingle official in this incident caused particular consternation.
Condemning all such acts and encouraging players, managers and supporters to "show restraint" and "behave responsibly," Horan's stance will certainly be a welcome one among many of those involved in the GAA.
"For all the triumph and glory that we have witnessed, our attention, regrettably, has been drawn to the reports and imagery of flash points of indiscipline that have flared up in a small number of games around the country.
"Although these brawls and acts of indiscipline have been few – let us be clear, they have still been a few too many and have no place in our Games. We cannot allow people to believe that they can behave differently than they would on the street just because they are wearing a jersey or a team tracksuit top or are attending a game.
"An act of violence is an act of violence regardless of where it takes place. The perpetrators of these incidents are not above the law."
Intriguingly, Horan made a pointed call for more action to be taken against those seen to be compromising what he holds to be the essential values of the GAA.
"Where action needs to be taken, action should be taken. Punishments and suspensions need to be meaningful and should have an impact.
"For the purpose of clarity, incidents that arise at local level are a matter for the organising committee in charge within that county to deal with. But there is still a collective responsibility on us all to take appropriate action where necessary and show leadership when it is required."
A strong stance on behalf of the GAA President, you can read John Horan's full remarks here.
