Kerry Are New York Champions

Minister Martin Announces Four GAA Coaches For The U.S.

The Minister for Foreign Affairs, Micheál Martin T.D., was on hand to congratulate New York-based Kerry footballers when they beat Down 13 points to 1-9 to become Gaelic Champions in the Big Apple.

Minister Martin congratulated the team as he attended the final in Gaelic Park in the Bronx.

The Minister said, "the fine display of football by both Kerry and Down not only produced a thriller for those who attended but it underlined the importance of Gaelic Games for our communities abroad."

"My own Department has taken a lead in the promotion of GAA abroad. In both the US and Britain clubs have been finding it increasingly difficult to find talented players, it is clear we must look beyond first generation Irish if the games are to continue to thrive."

"The Government has provided £250,000 sterling to employ 10 coaches to develop the games further in Britain and has now announced a further $100,000 to ensure four US based coaches are employed. They will train a new generation on the skills of the GAA."

The Minister attended the final as part of a number of engagements in New York and Washington to meet the Irish community.

Speaking during half time at Gaelic Park the Minister again highlighted the issue of undocumented people living in the United States.

"During talks in Washington with Congress members and Senators we have been making progress.

"There is no doubt the agreement we signed during our visit to DC which will provide 20,000 visas to Irish people on an annual basis which will allow them to work for a year in the States is a big step forward, but we know there is more to be done."

The Minister pledged to continue working with the Irish community and the US to find a resolution to the issue.