The proposed eight-week ban for Naomh Colmcille could have an effect on other Donegal GAA clubs.
Naomh Colmcille have appealed a proposed eight-week suspension and a €500 fine imposed by the Donegal GAA Management committee, who found the Newtowncunningham-based club in breach of sections 5.1 and 6.4 of the GAA’s Official Guide.
In February, a fundraiser was held on the second pitch at Pairc Colcmille in aid of former Naomh Colmcille player and coach Paul Dillon, who has been diagnosed with Motor Neurone Disease.
Naomh Colmcille were informed of the sanction last week after a probe was launched and the club will have its appeal heard on Tuesday night with the Donegal Hearings Committee as they seek to overturn a decision that has been widely criticised.
Should the suspension come into effect, the club’s senior games in that period would be forfeited.
While the suspension only deals with the club’s adult members, the sanction – should it be upheld – would have a direct impact on underage teams as their respective managers and coaches could not be involved for games.
There may also be a knock-on for clubs like Glenswilly, who are managed by a Naomh Colmcille clubman.
Ryan McKinley is in his first year as Glenswilly’s manager and is understood to be a current member of the Naomh Colmcille club.
Donegal GAA said yesterday in a statement posted on its official website: “Due process shall take place and CLG Naomh Colmcille have the right to prove these findings incorrect or mis-applied.”
This morning, Naomh Colmcille said on their Facebook page: “Folks, it’s fair to say we’ve had better weeks and we continually get asked for comment. The club position remains that we have appealed the proposed 8 week ban and we await the outcome of that process.”
Tags: