Northern Ireland

Ulster GAA to take part in Belfast Pride parade for the first time

Ulster GAA CEO Brian McAvoy. Picture by Hugh Russell
Ulster GAA CEO Brian McAvoy. Picture by Hugh Russell Ulster GAA CEO Brian McAvoy. Picture by Hugh Russell

ULSTER GAA is to be represented at the Belfast Pride parade for the first time, it has been confirmed.

The parade on July 30 will feature a Gaelic games section, with members keen to represent the organisation urged to apply online.

The move follows the national GAA taking part in a Pride parade for the first time in Dublin in 2019.

That same year the Antrim GAA body joined the Belfast Pride parade after the national organisation said it had no plans to participate, but said individual groups could do so at their discretion.

This year will be the first Belfast Pride parade since 2019 following the cancellations of the 2020 and 2021 event due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Ulster GAA chief executive Brian McAvoy said: "The GAA is an inclusive organisation which is committed to the principles of inclusion and diversity. Our manifesto, 'Where We All Belong', is a statement of recognition that our members and supporters are drawn from all walks of life. Everyone is welcome to participate in and enjoy our games and activities."

Ulster members can apply to join the GAA representation online by filling in a form at ulster.gaa.ie/pride.

"Ulster GAA extends an invitation to our members and their friends and families to join with us at the Belfast parade on 30th July, in solidarity with the membership of the LGBT+ community," Mr McAvoy added.