GAA club asked to give explanation after hunger strikers' pictures allegedly removed for 'cross community' event

A GAA club have been asked to give an explanation after two pictures of hunger strikers were allegedly removed from its clubhouse prior to a 'cross community' event.

Representatives of republican group Saoradh in North Derry say they have been contacted by members of St Canice's GAC in Dungiven, as well as residents and republicans from the area, regarding an event which took place in the club's bar earlier this year.

According to Saoradh, residents and GAA members are 'disgusted' and 'angry' over claims two pictures of 1981 hunger strikers were removed from the walls prior to a 'cross community' event taking place.

The County Derry Post understands that the event took place approximately six months ago.

Speaking about the issue, North Derry Saoradh representative, Christy O'Kane said: “Over the last few days, myself and other members of Saoradh in North Derry have been contacted many times by locals voicing their disbelief and anger that two pictures of the 1981 hunger strikers have been removed from the walls of the club to facilitate this event.

“Saoradh have absolutely no issues with such events taking place. We do however have serious concerns regarding the rationale for the removal of these two pictures. I would call on the club to clarify and address the anger and disgust of club members and local republicans.”

O'Kane continued stating that 'a number of pertinent questions come to the fore' following the issue being raised. 

“How was the decision reached to remove these pictures? Was it a full committee decision? If it was, were minutes taken at the meeting, and can these minutes be made available to club members and the two families of the hunger strikes whose pictures were removed? If not who made that decision?

“Were the families of the two hunger strikers fully and properly consulted? If not, why not? 

“We as republicans would ask why deem it necessary to hide framed pictures of heroic Irish republicans?”

O'Kane has now called for those responsible to remove themselves from the club.

“Saoradh utterly condemn this anti-republican act and we call on those who made this disgusting decision to remove themselves from any position that they may hold within St Canice's GAA club. 

“We also demand that the club apologise to the families and the wider republican community that have been hurt by this unacceptable and unnecessary act. 

“Saoradh have stated many times that we will listen to the republican community in North Derry, and we will continue to stand by them,” he added.

A spokesperson for St Canice's GAC said: “We are looking into this statement and we intend to go through the proper structures within the club to fully investigate this.”