Fermanagh GAA Protesters Vow to Continue Allianz Boycott Campaign
Protesters gathered at Brewster Park in Enniskillen on Saturday before the Fermanagh versus Laois National Football League match. Fr Gabriel Dolan, priest from Aghadrumsee, addressed the group of 50 people. Former Fermanagh GAA players Peter McGinnitty, Shane McDermott and Joanne Doonan supported the demonstration.
The Fermanagh Gaels Against Genocide group seeks to end the Gaelic Athletic Association's relationship with Allianz. Fermanagh county passed a motion calling for the GAA to sever ties with the insurer. Nine other counties passed similar motions.
GAA officials excluded the motions from the agenda at the recent Congress in Croke Park. The decision followed a United Nations report on Allianz. Protesters entered the Congress chamber during the event.
GAA President Jarlath Burns stated that protesters occupied the building illegally. Burns added that a doorman sustained injury in the incident.
Fr Dolan said the campaign persists despite the Congress outcome. He noted increased attendance at the Brewster Park protest compared to prior events. Dolan reported that a protester received a bite injury to the ear and face during the Congress entry.
Dolan expressed disappointment with Fermanagh delegates for not raising the issue at Congress. He anticipates further protests, including at the National League finals.