GAA MAY HOST SOCCER MATCH
GAA may host soccer match for the victims
Leading clubs offer services
By Una Bradley
PLANS for a star-studded soccer charity match in aid of the Omagh victims are set to make GAA history.
Players from Manchester United, Liverpool, Rangers and Celtic have already offered their services for the benefit clash.
The newly-renovated GAA stadium in the town has been suggested as the only venue big enough to host the game. But historically, the GAA has refused to allow "foreign" games on its grounds.
The chairman of St Enda's GAA club in Omagh yesterday said he had no objections to the benefit match.
Brendan McAleer said: "On a personal level, I wouldn't object to such an event. I don't see any major problems."
According to club rules, however, a decision will have to be made at county level or above.
Meanwhile, most of the takings from next Saturday's hurling semi-final replay between Clare and Offaly will go to the Omagh relief fund.
GAA President Joe McDonagh said admission to the match would be at half price and there would be no profits retained.
He also confirmed the GAA was considering setting up a national fund for the Omagh victims.
A host of other fundraisers are also in the pipeline in the wake of the disaster.
Celebrities from the rock "n' roll world have pledged their support.
Simple Minds singer Jim Kerr is reported to be behind a Live-Aid style concert in Dublin next month.
The Scottish singer, who once had a hit with the song, Belfast Child, is teaming up with another Scots businessman, ex-Celtic director Brian Dempsey, for the project.
A number of groups have agreed to perform for free, and rumours are circulating that chart-toppers Wet Wet Wet will headline the gig.
Proceeds from the opening night of a play in Dublin's Gaiety theatre will also be donated to Omagh. It is hoped over �50,000 will be raised by The Celtic Story.
And the haunting song that touched hearts at the Omagh memorial vigil may still be released as a charity single.
Omagh District Council has been inundated with requests for, Broken Things, since Tyrone artist Juliet Turner performed it on Saturday.
The council is reported to be considering releasing a CD to set up a Trust fund for victims and relatives.
Leading clubs offer services
By Una Bradley
PLANS for a star-studded soccer charity match in aid of the Omagh victims are set to make GAA history.
Players from Manchester United, Liverpool, Rangers and Celtic have already offered their services for the benefit clash.
The newly-renovated GAA stadium in the town has been suggested as the only venue big enough to host the game. But historically, the GAA has refused to allow "foreign" games on its grounds.
The chairman of St Enda's GAA club in Omagh yesterday said he had no objections to the benefit match.
Brendan McAleer said: "On a personal level, I wouldn't object to such an event. I don't see any major problems."
According to club rules, however, a decision will have to be made at county level or above.
Meanwhile, most of the takings from next Saturday's hurling semi-final replay between Clare and Offaly will go to the Omagh relief fund.
GAA President Joe McDonagh said admission to the match would be at half price and there would be no profits retained.
He also confirmed the GAA was considering setting up a national fund for the Omagh victims.
A host of other fundraisers are also in the pipeline in the wake of the disaster.
Celebrities from the rock "n' roll world have pledged their support.
Simple Minds singer Jim Kerr is reported to be behind a Live-Aid style concert in Dublin next month.
The Scottish singer, who once had a hit with the song, Belfast Child, is teaming up with another Scots businessman, ex-Celtic director Brian Dempsey, for the project.
A number of groups have agreed to perform for free, and rumours are circulating that chart-toppers Wet Wet Wet will headline the gig.
Proceeds from the opening night of a play in Dublin's Gaiety theatre will also be donated to Omagh. It is hoped over �50,000 will be raised by The Celtic Story.
And the haunting song that touched hearts at the Omagh memorial vigil may still be released as a charity single.
Omagh District Council has been inundated with requests for, Broken Things, since Tyrone artist Juliet Turner performed it on Saturday.
The council is reported to be considering releasing a CD to set up a Trust fund for victims and relatives.
Further Information
Publisher: BELFAST TELEGRAPH
Ref: BT/0258
Published Date: 25-Aug-98
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