Cricket club halts camp over criticism of GAA children

A cricket club in Co Down has cancelled a cross-community summer sports club after criticism on social media of the inclusion of children who play GAA.

North Down Cricket Club said it had made the decision not to proceed with the project which had been due to start this Friday.

The club, based in Comber, said it had planned to invite ten different local sports clubs and community groups - including organisations supporting ethnic minorities - to participate.

It said the aim was to build friendships through shared enjoyment of sport.

"A small group of children from a GAA club was just one part of that broader mix," it said.

But it added that following several days of commentary on social media it had been forced to issue a statement.

It said the club had been organised to give young people from different backgrounds a chance to enjoy cricket, try something new and have fun.

"As reaction to the event grew, we felt the spirit of the camp was at risk of being lost

"With regret - and out of respect for all involved - we chose not to proceed."

"But let's be clear, openness is not a threat. Respect is not surrender. And our culture is not so fragile that it can't be shared."

Alliance MLA Kellie Armstrong said she was disappointed by those criticising the club.

"North Down Cricket Club aimed to bring together children from all backgrounds to have them try different activities, interact with each other and most of all, have fun.

"This summer scheme has now been cancelled due to some online commentary.

"It is a disgrace the club felt it had to do that in the wake of such criticism.

"Those who have criticised the club do not represent the vast majority of people in Comber.

"The club was trying to bring positivity to the local community and has been met with bigotry and hostility from some quarters.

"We have contacted the club to give our full support and ensure they are aware that the vast majority of the town stands with them."

North Down Cricket Club was founded in 1857. It describes itself as the oldest sporting club in the town.

Among those to criticise the summer camp was one of Comber's Orange lodges.

Goldsprings of Comber said many local residents had raised concerns about the GAA's "cultural and historical affiliations".

Specifically it said there was unease about aspects of the GAA that had the commemorated people who had been involved in paramilitary activity.

"Residents have made it clear that until the GAA takes meaningful steps to ensure it is fully inclusive and sensitive to the history and identity of the Protestant Unionist and Loyalist community, its presence in Comber would be viewed with regret and opposition by many in the Comber community."

Sinn Féin MLA Colm Gildernew called on political representatives to stand against intolerance and disrespect.

"It is deeply disturbing that North Down Cricket Club has felt compelled to cancel its cross‑community sport summer camp because of the intolerance of some.

"Sport has a unique power to bring people together.

"Children should be able to play together in an inclusive and respectful environment, to build friendships and get to know each other."

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