GAA president Jarlath Burns praised for unifying message in rousing ...
GAA president Jarlath Burns has been praised for his timely unifying message after an epic All-Ireland hurling final.
Ultimately, it was The Banner who triumphed by 3-29 to 1-34.
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GAA President Jarlath Burns with a message more important than ever after the All-Ireland Final.
“For those who are our diaspora, who left this country because of war and famine, whose ancestors had to leave…and we thank the country’s who took you in and gave you jobs”
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And afterwards Burns delivered a rousing speech to match the raucous atmosphere around a sold-out Croke Park.
He made a clear nod to the past few days of unrest around Coolock over protests against the planned transformation of a disused factory into accommodation for over 500 international protection applicants.
The Armagh native noted how throughout history Irish people have been reliant on being taken in by other countries due to poverty and famine.
He stated: “For those who are our diaspora, who left this country because of war and famine, whose ancestors had to leave...we are thinking of you today.
"You are in Croke Park today, if not in body then in spirit.
"And we thank the countries who took you in and gave you jobs and allowed you to make a new name for yourselves with our native games.”
The message received praise among RTE viewers given the backdrop of the past few days.
Bohemians Chief Operating Officer said of it: "GAA President Jarlath Burns with a message more important than ever after the All-Ireland Final."
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While Ed Moynihan agreed: "Great speech, and what a timely message."
Similarly Jim Lucas posted: "Great speech. Great message. On the money."
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Dublin football great Philly McMahon was also approving of it.
He wrote: "Great message by Jarlath Burns. The Irish diaspora exemplifies how cultural exchange enriches societies.
"Embracing multiculturalism helps us grow stronger and more vibrant together.
On the pitch, Clare outlasted The Rebels after an exhausting battle where the sides were level on TEN occasions during the regulation 70 minutes alone.
The nip and tuck nature continued all the way through extra-time too with the score level at half-time.
A critical spurt by Brian Lohan's men then put them three points clear.
But Cork came back yet again with a valiant effort to score the epic game's final two points.
The final play of the match will be mired in controversy.
Sub Robbie O'Flynn's shot went agonisingly wide - with replays showing his jersey was clearly being pulled as he did so.
However, in the RTE studio Cork legend Donal Og Cusack magnanimously downplayed the influence that had on O'Flynn's miss.
He also stressed that referee Johnny Murphy performed extremely well across what was a hectic 90 minutes that would have proven tricky to officiate for any official in the country.
