Derry GAA Convention 2023

The 2023 Annual County Convention of Derry GAA was held at Owenbeg on Monday 11th December.

Management Committee 2024

The following officers have been elected to serve on the management committee for 2024:

Cathaoirleach/Chairperson: John Keenan (Castledawson)
Leas Cathaoirleach/Vice-Chairperson: Mark Gannon (Limavady)
Runái/Secretary: Danny Scullion (Ballinascreen)
Cisteoir/Treasurer: Martin Devlin (Ogra Colmcille)
Oif Chaid Poiblí/Public Relations Officer: Chris Keenan (Newbridge)
Oif Oilúna/Coaching Officer: Hugh McGrath (Steelstown)
Oif Gaeilege agus Cultúir/Officer for Irish Language and Culture: Thomas Close (Glenullin)
Comhairle Uladh/Ulster Council: Mark Gannon (Limavady)
Ard Chomhairle/Central Council: Sean Keane (Glen)
Oif Oiliúint agus Pleanáil/Planning and Training Officer: Mark Chesney (Castledawson)
Oif Leanaí/Children’s Officer: Michelle Friel (Drumsurn)
Oif Sábháilteacht/Safety Officer: Charlie Bonner (Na Magha)

Chairman’s Address

In a wide ranging speech, Derry County Chairman John Keenan told the meeting:

“The past year has seen Derry achieving unprecedented success. We don’t have to look too far back. Just yesterday we had another magnificent achievement by Watty Graham’s, claiming back to back Ulster titles.

“It’s wonderful to see the long-term investment in player pathways paying off, creating a positive impact on the current generation’s experience with Gaelic games. Children are now experiencing what we did during the 90s and it’s vital that we sustain and harness that energy to take the county to even greater heights. However, we must remain vigilant and innovative, ensuring that our standards continue to rise each passing year. In the hugely competitive environment of top level Gaelic sports, if we stand still we will lose ground. We therefore must redouble our efforts for the next decade to ensure that our clubs and county are the best that we can possibly be.

“The key to it all are our resilient clubs, emerging stronger from the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Their perseverance embodies the true spirit of community that defines our association.

“Amidst the positive experiences, we must address the pressing issue of discipline, especially in underage games. The alarming statistics demand our attention, and as leaders, it is our responsibility to eliminate abusive language and aggressive behavior, reaffirming our commitment to the betterment of young people.

“Emphasizing respect for referees is crucial in maintaining the integrity of our games. It is essential that we acknowledge the efforts of referees who play a pivotal role in ensuring fair play and sportsmanship.

“…what we share is more than a pastime; it’s a way of life. The uniqueness of our community and its spirit is something we must cherish and never take for granted. Let us always recognize the special bond that unites us and strive to uphold the values that make our association extraordinary. Together, we ensure that this way of life remains a source of pride and inspiration for generations to come.

Secretary Report

County secretary Sean Keane submitted a comprehensive review of the year and used his report to highlight the ongoing turmoil experienced by the family of Sean Brown:

“It is now twenty-six years since the brutal murder of Bellaghy GAA chairman Sean Brown. Throughout that time the trauma of the Brown family has been compounded by the failure of the authorities to conduct a proper inquiry into his death. Derry GAA stands firm in our support for the Brown family and call for an end to the ongoing delays in the inquest process. Sean Brown was a faithful servant of the entire community and devoted his life to serving others. The Brown family deserve better. The Brown family deserve the support of the entire GAA community.”

Financial Report

Derry County Treasurer Martin Devlin presented the audited annual financial reports. Highlights are follows:

Total Income: £1,872,788

Total Expenditure: £1,633,311

Surplus: £239,477

Strategic Plan

Derry Operations Manager Stephen Barker addressed convention, telling delegates that 2024 will see the formulation of a new strategic plan for the GAA in the county.