A cross-community sports summer camp in County Down has been cancelled after criticism of the involvement of a “small group of children from a GAA club”.
North Down Cricket Club, based in Comber, had planned to host the event for young people from different backgrounds, including some from East Belfast GAA.
However, there was opposition from a number of local residents and a local Orange Lodge that said there were concerns about the “perceived move of the GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association) into the local community”.
The cricket club said following comment on social media, the “spirit of the camp was at risk of being lost” and it had chosen not to proceed.
Club wanted children ‘to try something new’
North Down Cricket Club said it had been an important part of Comber since 1857 “with deep roots, proud traditions, and a strong sense of identity”.
It added: “At North Down, we welcome people from all walks of life.
“Cricket is a global game made up of many faiths and cultures, and that is reflected here at the green. What unites us is the game.
“The sport summer camp was created to give young people from different backgrounds a chance to enjoy cricket, try something new, and simply have fun.
“The plan was to involve 10 different local sports and community groups — including organisations supporting ethnic minority communities — with the aim of building friendships through shared activity.
“A small group of children from a GAA club was just one part of that broader mix.
“As reaction to the event grew, we felt the spirit of the camp was at risk of being lost.
“With regret — and out of respect for all involved — we chose not to proceed,” the club’s statement added.
Lodge says some GAA actions are viewed as ‘divisive’
Goldsprings of Comber Orange lodge posted a message on social media saying that “many local residents have raised reservations about the GAA’s cultural and historical affiliations”.
“Specifically, there is unease regarding aspects of the organisation that have, in the past, celebrated or commemorated individuals associated with paramilitary activity.
“For a shared and peaceful future, such actions are viewed by some as divisive and incompatible with a truly inclusive society.
“Residents have made it clear that until the GAA takes meaningful steps to ensure it is fully inclusive and sensitive to the history and identity of the Protestant, Unionist and Loyalist (PUL) community, its presence in Comber would be viewed with regret and opposition by many in the Comber area,” the lodge added.
“This issue is not about opposition to sport, but about ensuring that all organisations operating in shared spaces demonstrate respect for all traditions and work proactively towards reconciliation and mutual understanding.”
The Orange Order declined to comment.
