Investigation launched into violence at GAA match

An investigation is to be carried out by the Leinster GAA after scenes of violence marred an intermediate club hurling match at Parnell Park yesterday.

A fight broke out among players at the Leinster intermediate hurling quarter final involving Oulart-The Ballagh of Wexford and Naomh Barróg of Dublin.

Footage of the fight on social media showed the melee, which involved players from both sides, erupted under the stand at Parnell Park, and escalated when supporters began facing off against one another in the stand itself.

The Chairperson of Leinster GAA Pat Teehan said he condemned the violence unequivocally.

"We play hundreds of games every weekend in a spirit of enjoyment for both players and spectators and unfortunately we get isolated incidents which are rightly highlighted in the media and elsewhere, because they have no place in our games."

"We must deal them in as harsh a manner as we can, but also in a fair manner"

He said Leinster GAA would examine the referees report and study its contents before carrying out a formal investigation into the incident.

He said the referees report would be available within the next 24 hours, after which an immediate meeting of the Leinster Competition Control Committee would take place to discuss it.

"There is any amount of sanctions available," said Mr Teehan.

"There are very severe sanctions which can be imposed and if necessary which will be imposed."

When asked if Leinster GAA would make a complaint to the gardai about the incident, Mr Teehan said if there is a garda investigation, the GAA would fully cooperate with it.

He said Leinster GAA would make a decision on whether or not to make a complaint to the GAA as part of its investigation.

In a statement to RTÉ's This Week programme An