Call to Action: GAA Counties Unite for Belfast Road Safety Protest

GAA president Jarlath Burns has called for all counties to support an upcoming peaceful demonstration in Belfast calling for work to begin on the upgrade of theA5 road.

The Dangerous A5 Road

The road, running from Aughnacloy inCo TyronetoCo 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." Since 2006, 57 people have lost their lives along the route.

The Road to Upgrades

TheNorthern Ireland Executivegave the green light for the long-awaited upgrade to the A5 in October 2024, and work to turn the road into a dual carriageway was set to get underway on the Strabane to Ballygawley stretch early this year.

Current Challenges

However, in November works were delayed as a legal challenge was brought againstStormont’s Department for Infrastructure from nine applicants who are opposed to the dual carriageway scheme. The case is due to be heard atBelfast High Courton Tuesday, March 18, with a peaceful demonstration held outside the court from 9am to 10am, organised by the A5 Enough is Enough group.

Call for Support

In an open letter, GAA president Jarlath Burns has urged all counties across the island of Ireland to support the demonstration and campaign. He emphasized the need for action to prevent further tragedies and loss of lives on the A5 road.