Castlebar Mitchels report alleged child abuse to TUSLA and Croke Park

Castlebar Mitchels have submitted a 'Reported Allegation of Abuse Form' to the Mayo County Board, Connacht GAA, Croke Park and Tusla, believing there are "reasonable grounds for concern relating to child abuse" following an incident at an Under-17 club fixture.

The Mayo semi-final encounter against Westport was abandoned due to an altercation on the pitch when an adult entered the field of play.

A 96-week ban was handed out to the adult and Castlebar were awarded the victory, however, upon appeal, the ban was reduced to two games, while Westport were reinstated into the competition.

The Castlebar club said that they were disappointed with the decision and have now decided to take the matter further believing that there are 'reasonable grounds for concern relating to child abuse'.

Mitchels have also called on Croke Park to review their current processes to "adequately protect underage players".

A statement from Castlebar Mitchels read: "Following an incident at a recent Under-17 club football semi-final, Castlebar Mitchels believe that there were reasonable grounds for concern relating to child abuse. Castlebar Mitchels prepared a 'Reported Allegation of Abuse Form' and this has been submitted to the Mayo County Board, Connacht GAA, Croke Park and TUSLA.

"Mayo County Board CCC fined Westport €1000, the Westport official who entered the field received a 96-week ban and the club was removed from the competition.

"Westport appealed this decision to the Appeals Hearing Mayo GAA and following on from the appeal it was announced that they have been reinstated to the competition and the 96-week ban has been reduced to two games.

"Castlebar Mitchels is very disappointed with the recent appeal findings and believe that this is not in