Cross-community kids' summer camp axed after online comments about GAA

A cross-community sports summer camp in County Down has been cancelled following social media backlash over the involvement of the GAA.

North Down Cricket Club, located in Comber, had intended to host the event for youngsters this Friday. However, the club withdrew the scheme after receiving negative feedback from some sectors, including the local Orange Lodge.

Goldsprings of Comber Orange lodge posted on their Facebook earlier on Tuesday that a "number of residents in the Comber area have expressed significant concerns regarding the proposed or perceived move of the GAA into the local community".

The cricket club stated that due to comments on social media, the "spirit of the camp was at risk of being lost" and it had decided not to go ahead. The club mentioned that a "small group of children from a GAA club was just one part of that broader mix" of the summer scheme.

North Down Cricket Club highlighted its long-standing presence in Comber since 1857 "with deep roots, proud traditions, and a strong sense of identity", reports Belfast Live.

It further added: "At North Down, we welcome people from all walks of life. Cricket is a global game made up of many faiths and cultures, and that is reflected here at the green. What unites us is the game.

"The sport summer camp was created to give young people from different backgrounds a chance to enjoy cricket, try something new, and simply have fun. The plan was to involve 10 different local sports and community groups - including organisations supporting ethnic minority communities - with the aim of building friendships through shared activity.

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

The cricket club added: "Respect is not surrender. And our culture is not so fragile that it can't be shared."

The full Facebook post from the Goldsprings Lodge read: "A number of residents in the Comber area have expressed significant concerns regarding the proposed or perceived move of the GAA (Gaelic Athletic Association) into the local community.

"While the promotion of sport and youth engagement is widely supported across all sectors of society, many local residents have raised reservations about the GAA's cultural and historical affiliations. Specifically, there is unease regarding aspects of the organisation that have, in the past, celebrated or commemorated individuals associated with paramilitary activity. For a shared and peaceful future, such actions are viewed by some as divisive and incompatible with a truly inclusive society."

Residents have voiced their stance that until the GAA takes significant steps to ensure inclusivity and sensitivity towards the Protestant, Unionist and Loyalist (PUL) community's history and identity, its developments in Comber will be met with dismay and resistance by many locals.

"This issue is not about opposition to sport, but about ensuring that all organisations operating in shared spaces demonstrate respect for all traditions and work proactively towards reconciliation and mutual understanding."

First Minister Michelle O'Neill slammed the situation on Facebook, stating: "Children should be allowed to play together at summer camp without facing intolerance. These developments are deeply worrying and unacceptable. Sport has the power to unify.

"Political representatives must call this out. We need to send a clear message that we will continue moving forward together to build a brighter society and overcome such unacceptable intolerance."

Kellie Armstrong, Alliance MLA, expressed her disillusionment with those targeting the cricket club.

She added: "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 or further afield in Strangford. The club was trying to bring positivity to the local community and has been met with hostility and bigotry from some quarters. We have contacted the club to give our full support and ensure they are aware the vast majority of the town stands with them.

"The people who have criticised the club and forced the postponement of the summer scheme need to realise denying children the right to play sport together for purely sectarian reasons is not acceptable on any level."

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