Proposal on the table to honour Down GAA team

Councillor Seamus Doyle made the proposal at the monthly meeting of Banbridge District Council last Monday night and was seconded by Councillor Cassie McDermott.

“I think we should write a letter of congratulations to the Down team and I propose we hold a civic reception in one of the local hotels in honour of the team,” said Mr Doyle.

Councillor Dessie Ward supported the proposal and said the council should show its support for the team which had fought to a “nail biting” finish and lost by the narrowest of margins.

“We should all be proud of what Down has achieved and I believe as a council we should be rewarding this sporting achievement,” said Mr Ward.

However, Councillor David Herron said he objected on the grounds the game is played on a Sunday and he quoted the Biblical Commandment, “Remember the Sabbath Day to Keep it Holy”.

“If gaelic was played on a Saturday, that would be a different matter but the way things stand I won’t be supporting this,” said Mr Herron.

At that point it was decided to refer the matter back to the committee for further consideration.