MLA’s anger over camogie ‘Up the IRA’ chants after major championship victory

Upper Bann MLA Jonathan Buckley said the incident, which he said followed the Armagh camogie team’s victory in the Junior All-Ireland championship on Saturday, was “another inexcusable example of IRA glorification within gaelic games”.

A video on social media appeared to show some camogie players celebrating with chants of “Ooh, aah, up the Ra”.

It was not clear if those involved were players or supporters.

Mr Buckley said: “A victory in such a championship is clearly a huge achievement for any team, but it is deeply disappointing that once again we see another incident relating to Gaelic games and IRA chanting.

“Such scenes are inexcusable but they are also inexplicable. I have no doubt that many fans of gaelic games are appalled by such behaviour.

“However, the complete absence of any meaningful action by the GAA to previous incidents involving gaelic football teams could lead people to believe that the glorification of terrorism is endemic within parts of the organisation.

“Whilst only a few weeks ago the majority of focus was on breaches of Covid-19 regulations by GAA fans in Dungannon, it should not be forgotten that celebrations on that occasion were also accompanied by pro-IRA chanting.

“Last year, references to “f****** huns” were recorded on another team bus.”

The GAA continues to name grounds and competitions after IRA members, he added.

Ulster GAA declined to comment while Ulster Camogie had not yet responded.

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