GAA President Seeks Nationwide Backing for Crucial A5 Road Protest

GAA President Jarlath Burns has urged all counties to support an upcoming peaceful demonstration in Belfast calling for work to begin on the upgrade of the A5 road. The road, running from Aughnacloy in Co Tyrone to Co Derry, is one of the most dangerous stretches of road in Northern Ireland and has been dubbed 'one of the most dangerous roads in Ireland.' The Urgency of the A5 Upgrade The Northern Ireland Executive approved the long-awaited upgrade to the A5 in October 2024, with work set to commence on the Strabane to Ballygawley stretch earlier this year. However, legal challenges have delayed progress, with a hearing scheduled at Belfast High Court on Tuesday, March 18. Calls for Support In an open letter, GAA President Jarlath Burns highlighted the significance of the campaign, emphasizing the need to save lives on the perilous A5 road. Burns called on the GAA community to unite and bring attention to the cause, urging attendees at the March 18 demonstration to demand immediate action. The GAA's Leadership Tyrone GAA has been actively involved in supporting the A5 upgrade campaign, showcasing the community values of the GAA. Burns commended their efforts and urged every county to participate in raising awareness and advocating for the much-needed safety improvements on the A5. Uniting for Change March 18 presents an opportunity for the GAA community to stand in solidarity, honoring those who lost their lives on the A5 and insisting on swift action to prevent further tragedies. Burns implored individuals to join the demonstration and amplify the call for immediate progress on the vital road upgrade. A Unified Message The President emphasized the collective voice needed to drive change and prevent further heartbreak on the A5, urging everyone to come together on March 18 to declare 'enough is enough'. The campaign aims to push forward without further delays, ensuring that families are no longer affected by the road's dangerous conditions.