THE Ulster Unionist Party says the inclusion of hurling in its new party-political broadcast is to show unionism is open and inclusive.
Aired ahead of the UUP’s annual conference in Belfast, it included a short clip of a young girl with a hurl striking a sliothar. It also featured a clip of a same-sex couple.
Leader Doug Beattie said the broadcast featured hurling, rugby and football. He said the party wished to offer a political home to anyone who believed Northern Ireland should remain in the union.
"We recognise that unionists do not fit neatly into a box, and consequently, our unionism is open and inclusive and not confined to a particular religious or ethnic group, social class or sexual orientation," he said.
While unionist leaders have, on occasions, attended GAA matches, their colleagues have largely been hostile because of its identity with the nationalist and republican community.
East Belfast GAA and Irish language activist Linda Ervine said the broadcast was a welcome step and a case of “tus maith leath na hoibre” (a good start is half the work).
From a unionist background, Ms Ervine said: “I have a lot of faith in Doug Beattie and I believe that his party is genuinely trying to reach out and recognise that people play GAA, speak Irish and also people go to bands. The future cannot be divisive. It is about people coming together."
However, TUV leader, Jim Allister said he was “sceptical” about the broadcast. Mr Allister said the decision to include the GAA was a matter for the UUP.
“Whether it works or not will be clear in time."
Mr Allister said it was not something the TUV would do.
"The GAA has sent harsh and relentlessly hostile messages to unionists through trophies and clubs named after terrorists. That chill factor will continue as long as the GAA continues to do so," Mr Allister said.
The broadcast was welcomed by SDLP assembly member, Mark H Durkan.
"It is a nice touch and recognises the Gaelic tradition and that there is another culture on the island. I would welcome anything that encourages people from a unionist background to get involved in the GAA," Mr Durkan said.
