The Gaelic Athletic Association (GAA) today confirmed that the All-Star hurling tour to Argentina would go ahead as planned later this month despite the political turmoil in the South American country.
GAA officials held a meeting in Croke Park this afternoon to discuss the situation and decided to travel after receiving confirmation from the Irish embassy in Buenos Aires that the "political and social situation in Argentina has stabilised."
The tour had been in some doubt after the collapse of Argentina's economy sparked violent street protests last month.
"This is the decision we wanted to hear today," said Danny Lynch, press officer of the GAA.
The purpose of the trip is an exhibition game between the 2000 All-Stars and the 2001 selection. It will be played on January 26th at the Hurling Club of Buenos Aires. The hurling club is, incidentally, home to the country's largest rugby club.
The traveling party consists of 50 people and departs for Argentina, via Madrid, on January 23rd and returns home on January 30th.
Limerick hurler Mark Foley is unavailable to travel and has been replaced by Cathal Moore of Galway. Foley was selected on the 2001 All-Star team.