§ 5. Mr. Parryasked the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what recent discussions he has had with the Gaelic Athletic Association about its funding.
§ Mr. ParryThe Minister will be aware that the GAA celebrates its anniversary this year. Has he seen early-day motion 646, supported by 189 hon. Members from England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales, offering their congratulations to the GAA? In view of the role played by the GAA over many years in sport and cultural activities, does the Minister agree that the funding is money well spent and a good investment?
§ Mr. ScottI am aware of the role played by the GAA in providing sporting facilities for the minority community, in particular, in Northern Ireland, but that does not reduce by one iota my revulsion at the retention of rule 15 in the constitution of that body.
§ Mr. Peter RobinsonDoes the Minister recognise that the GAA has permitted, if not encouraged, the use of its property by the IRA and that, during the hunger strike, it sent messages of support to the hunger strikers?
§ Mr. ScottWith regard to the first part of the hon. Gentleman's question, I am sure that if he has any evidence he will present it to the Royal Ulster Constabulary.
§ Mr. William RossWhy do the Government give the GAA access to public funds when that organisation exists only to promote political objectives and uses sporting activities as a cloak and a screen for them?
§ Mr. ScottBecause of the role that the GAA plays in providing sporting facilities, especially for the minority community. It is worth pointing out, however, that the Stormont Government in 1962 initiated the granting of public funds to the GAA. It was not a decision of the direct-rule Government.