CASTLEBAR Mitchels GAA have hit out after an individual allegedly involved in a flashpoint with one of their minor players had his ban reduced from 96 weeks to two games.
The news comes just days after GAA President Larry McCarthy and leading referees spoke about their frustrations at suspensions being challenged and bans not sticking.
Castlebar Mitchels club have called for the Minor A football championship to be halted until the matter is concluded.
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In a statement they revealed that following their recent semi-final encounter with Westport they prepared a ‘Reported Allegation of Abuse Form’ and submitted it to Mayo GAA, Connacht GAA, Croke Park and TUSLA.
The flashpoint also led to Westport GAA being kicked out of the competition and fined €1000 but the club were later reinstated.
Castlebar were hit with a €250 fine for failure to apply for permission to video the game, which has since been paid.
A statement released tonight by the club read: “Castlebar Mitchles is very disappointed with the recent appeal findings and believe that this is not in keeping with the best interests of child welfare.
“The club has requested that Mayo GAA does not resume the under 17A Championship until all investigations are completed.
“The club also requests that Croke Park and the County Board review their current processes and regulations so that they adequately protect underage players and that if an incident like this happens again that it is harshly dealt with.”
Castlebar went on to compliment their minor players and management for their “patience and forbearance,” and to praise the parents of their players.
They also hit out at what they termed “untrue and hostile commentary on social media.”
The incident was one of a number of disciplinary flashpoints in recent weeks.
Last week the GAA revealed that a ‘Respect the Referee’ day would take place this coming weekend.
But this latest news is a major blow to the Association.
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