County Derry Post

The chairman of the GAA in County Derry has called on the PSNI and politicians to do more to end attacks on the association.

 

Seamus McCloy spoke out after police told officials at up to 14 GAA clubs across the county to check their grounds last week.

 

The security alerts later turned out to be hoaxes.

 

The security operation was launched just hours after a “viable device” was left at a GAA club in County Down.

 

“This sort of thing seems to be going on a long time,” said Mr McCloy.

 

“We are a sporting organisation and 80 per cent of our members are under 18 and a lot of our work is being done on the ground.

 

“Those who would want to attack the GAA need to say why and offer a reason.

 

“The police and politicians need to find out why this is happening and do more to stop it.

 

“It’s only 10 years ago since we lost the chairman of a GAA club in Derry, Sean Brown in Bellaghy.”

 

A spokesman for the PSNI said: “Police condemn any act that puts the lives of the public at risk.

 

“We will continue to work with the community to make Northern Ireland a safer place for everyone.

“Anyone with information about criminal activity should contact the local police station.”