A chara, - I wish to reply to the comments of Michael Long (September 22nd) to policing and the GAA's rule 21.
Mr Long claims that the Alliance Party aims to remove all barriers to sporting participation. A worthy aspiration indeed and one which I share. However, to claim that the removal of Rule 21 will somehow offer a miraculous solution to wider political problems is, I believe, naive to say the least. As someone who has witnessed at first hand the institutionalised sectarianism of the RUC and the British Army, I can see no evidence to suggest that allowing members of these forces to participate in our native games is the answer to the complex difficulties involved.
In terms of the Patten Report, nationalists have long realised that reports on paper can mean little if not implemented. This is particularly the case in relation to policing. Mr Long's assertion that "many people have waited for movement from other quarters as an excuse to renege on their obligations" is true to some degree. However, I contend that it is up to political parties to create the momentum for change and give leadership in these regards, not sporting organisations.
I believe that Rule 21 will be repealed. But for this to happen before members of the GAA feel comfortable and secure with a new police force would be unhelpful to say the least. If we are to "jump together to take the necessary leap of faith" it is vital that a truly representative and accountable police service be established. This must be the first step. - Is mise,
Cllr Matt Carthy, National Organiser, Ogra Shinn Fein, Cearnog Pharnell, Atha Cliath 1.