MEP defends GAA nomination for European Union prize

The Fine Gael MEP Sean Kelly has defended his decision to nominate the GAA for the 2013 European Union citizen’s prize.
Mr. Kelly said he nominated the GAA because of the ‘wonderful’ work it has done for communities across the Island of Ireland.
The DUP MEP Diane Dodds slammed the nomination saying it smacks of electioneering.
She also accused the GAA in the north of naming tournaments and GAA grounds after those she claims have been ‘associated with campaigns of terror and mayhem’.
Sean Kelly says he was taken aback by Diane Dodds’s criticisms.
“Well I was a bit surprised and disappointed because I wouldn’t comment negatively on any nominee that another MEP would make” he said.
“And I think she’s mistaken in the sense that the GAA has moved on, and Northern Ireland has moved on considerably, and the GAA has made a huge impression in Northern Ireland”.
“And indeed particularly in relations across the communities, and also indeed in relation to the PSNI” he added.