'Dismissed and undermined' - Carlow GAA club hits out after ‘incident’ at packed fundraiser

A Carlow GAA club has hit out following what it described as an “incident” at a packed local fundraising event attended by more than 650 people at the weekend.

Ballinabranna GAA said it felt it was important to address comments made publicly about the club during the event, saying it was “deeply disappointed” that remarks made in such a setting “sought to dismiss and undermine Ballinabranna GAA and the people who sustain it”.

In a public statement posted to Facebook, Ballinabranna GAA said: “Following an incident at a local fundraising event on Saturday night which was attended by over 650 people including members of the wider community, local representatives and Carlow GAA delegates, Ballinabranna GAA feels it is important to address comments made publicly about our club.”

“We were deeply disappointed that, in such a setting, remarks were made that sought to dismiss and undermine Ballinabranna GAA and the people who sustain it,” the club said.

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“These comments do not reflect the reality of our club and its legacy, our community, or the countless individuals who give their time, energy and commitment week in, week out.”

The statement stressed that Ballinabranna GAA is “built on volunteerism and community spirit”, adding: “Our players continue to represent the club with dedication in all conditions, wearing the jersey with pride. Our committee members and volunteers give freely of their time to ensure the club functions, develops and remains a welcoming place for all.”

The club also highlighted its work beyond the pitch, saying it “plays an active and meaningful role in the life of the parish”.

“Our ongoing engagement with Ballinabranna National School and surrounding schools, our support of youth development and the establishment and growth of our LGFA teams in recent years all speak to a club that is very much alive and evolving.”

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Ballinabranna GAA said it believes “constructive dialogue belongs within the club, not on a public stage”, adding that “any concerns or ideas for improvement are always welcome through the appropriate channels, where they can be discussed respectfully and productively”.

The statement concluded by stressing the club’s standing locally, saying: “Ballinabranna GAA’s standing within the community is strong. The support we receive locally is consistent and genuine, and our spirit is not defined by a single individual or moment.

“We remain proud of who we are, grateful to those who support us and fully committed to continuing our work for the benefit of our players and our parish.”