GAA repeat intent to abolish Rule 21

The GAA has confirmed its intent to abolish controversial Rule 21 which bars members of the British security forces from playing the sport.

In a statement the GAA said it “welcomed” the initial reaction within the nationalist community to Secretary of State John Reid’s package of police reforms, although it fell short of actually endorsing the Reid plan saying it needed time to study the report.

The sports body said: “The GAA welcomes the fact that initial reaction in regard to the proposed revised implementation plan for policing in Northern Ireland appears to be positive, while noting that it is recognised that certain difficulties still exist.”

It further added that the GAA was committed to the motion passed at a special congress in May 1998 to “delete Rule 21 from its Official Guide when effective steps are taken to implement amended structures and policing arrangements envisaged in the British/Irish Peace Agreement.”

The cautious welcome given by the GAA comes after the Catholic Church and SDLP publicly endorsed the police reform package earlier this week. (AMcE)