§ Rev. William McCreaTo ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland whether students at Loughry college, who may be part-time members of the security forces, will be permitted to play Gaelic games under the auspices of the Gaelic Club at Loughry; and whether the Irish Republic's tricolour will be permitted to be flown at Gaelic games being played at Loughry.
§ Mr. Peter BottomleyLoughry college strongly encourages all students to organise and participate in those sports or recreational activities in which they are interested. Gaelic football is a popular choice among students.
The college expects each club or society to be student-led and to manage its own affairs. This may include affiliation with the governing body for a particular sport such as the Gaelic Athletic Association or the Irish Rugby Football Association (Ulster Branch).
I congratulate the college club on its success in the all-Ireland agricultural colleges competitions.
We are unaware of any student being refused permission to play Gaelic games because he or she is a part-time member of the security forces.
55WThe flag which may be flown at Loughry college is the Union flag. It is flown from the official flag pole on appointed days.