SDLP calls for Derry manager Gallagher to step aside

The SDLP has called for the Derry GAA manager Rory Gallagher to step aside before the county team play Armagh in the Ulster Final on Sunday following serious allegations by his former wife.

Cara Hunter, an SDLP Stormont Assembly member for East Derry, said the severe allegations against him need to be addressed.

"I think it's really important that he steps aside," she told RTÉ News.

Mr Gallagher had issued a statement through his solicitor saying he had been "made aware of a social media post by my estranged wife in which she has made a number of very serious allegations against me".

He added: "Allegations against me have been investigated and dealt with by the relevant authorities."

Nicola Gallagher claimed she had been the victim of domestic violence over a period of more than 20 years during their marriage, in a social media posting earlier this week.

In a statement issued this afternoon, the SDLP's Cara Hunter said she did not believe it was appropriate for Mr Gallagher to lead the Derry team ahead of the Ulster Final.

"He should do the right thing and stand aside," the statement said.

It added: "This is a test for the county board and for those in positions of leadership. There is only one acceptable outcome."

The PSNI confirmed that it investigated a number of reported incidents and files were submitted to Northern Ireland's Public Prosecution Service (PPS).

In a statement yesterday, the PPS said it had received two investigation files from the PSNI in January and June 2022 and a decision was made not to prosecute.

It said prosecutors decided there was "insufficient evidence to provide a reasonable prospect of conviction".

In a statement this afternoon, the Derry GAA County Board said: "Derry GAA condemns all forms of domestic