TYRONE chairman Michael Kerr has promised that the GAA in the county will leave no-one behind in their hour of need and will work tirelessly to provide vital assistance to its communities during the Covid19 emergency.
He pledged that the void left by the inability of government agencies to respond to many of the challenges presented by the crisis will be filled by GAA volunteers from Tyrone’s network of clubs.
Members are on the ground carrying out a variety of tasks to assist those isolated or affected by the virus in any way, with every club in the county mobilising individual community efforts.
“The statutory agencies haven’t the wherewithal to deliver, but we will deliver,” said Kerr.
“The GAA is at the heart of the community. It has reach into every nook and cranny of our communities.
“The statutory agencies do not have that reach, they have limited resources, whereas we seem to have infinite resources, and we’re infinitely resourceful.”
And the Red Hand chair gave an assurance that no challenge will be too great for an Association that has been an essential part of the fabric of Irish society since its foundation.
“It doesn’t matter what problem is thrown up to the GAA, we will resource it and come back with a response.
“We are there for everybody, and we will deliver for the good of the community.
“This is when the communities will be seen at their best, and every community will rise to the occasion.”
And he urged people to offer support to each other for as long as the current crisis exists.
“It’s unknown territory for everybody, but if we stick together, we’ll all get through it, and we’ll come out stronger and better at the end of it.”
And Kerr confirmed that Tyrone GAA has extended the suspension of all events and meetings until the end of April, at which point the situation will be reviewed.
Every club in the county has mobilised with its own community effort.
A food bank has been set up by Killyclogher St Mary’s GAC in conjunction with the St Vincent de Paul charity.
“Thanks to those who made monetary donations and to the local retailers who donated goods,” the club said in a message.
“We will continue to link with SVP and monitor the need and will provide further support in the future.”
And a group of clubs in the Carrickmore/Loughmacrory/Greencastle area have joined forces to provide a united service.
An Charraig Mhór GAA, Eire Og Carrickmore, Carrickmore Boxing Club, Loughmacrory St Teresa's GAC, Loughmacrory GAA Handball, Mountfield Community Association, Carrickmore GAA Handball, Lough Macrory Community Association, Carmen Runners, Termon Wheelers, Creggan Community Association and Greencastle GAA said in a joint message: “In light of the recent COVID-19 (Corona Virus) outbreak on our Island, local clubs/groups in the parish have been consulting and we feel that a joined up approach would be the ideal solution in providing much needed help and support to the isolated, elderly and vulnerable within our community over the coming days and weeks.”
Meanwhile, Tyrone goalkeeper Niall Morgan also posted an on-line message urging members of the public to show responsibility in response to the situation, and to play their part in minimising the effects of the spreading virus.
And he urged young people to resist the temptation to go to pubs and clubs until the crisis as ended.
“We all have a part to play, it’s in our hands,” he said. “Coronavirus is no joke, and we all have part to play.
“Try to refrain from going on nights out. We’ll all support our pubs and clubs when the time comes to pass.
“Try to support your local businesses. I know it’s not an easy time for anybody, but it’s an especially difficult time for them.”
The Edendork clubman said everybody should observe and follow the advice from the health authorities, north and south.
“Respect social distancing, and try to refrain from hugging or shaking hands.
“This is not a solo run, we all have a part to play.
“Think of those who are more vulnerable in our society, such as the elderly or those with underlying health conditions.
“Work from home if you can. If you suffer from any of the symptoms of Coronavirus, please seek proper help from the HSE or the NHS.”
