Officials at Banner Gaa Club has moved to reassure all its members, players, parents and the wider Clare GAA community that the abuse perpetrated by one of its former under age managers can never be repeated again.
Earlier this week former Chairman, PRO and founding member of the club James Tony Maher pleaded guilty to abusing two young boys in the early 1980’s and will be sentenced in the New Year.
Speaking to Clare FM a representative from Banner GAA said they met with parents last night to allay any fears that such an incident could occur again.
At Ennis Circuit Court on Monday – former under-age hurling manager with Banner GAA James Tony Maher of Clonroad Beg Ennis admitted to 18 counts of abuse on two young children – one a club hurler in the early 80’s.
In their victim impact statements the two victims said they had both attempted suicide in the years since and had become addicted to alcohol.
Following the court proceedings Banner GAA has stated that it was shocked to learn of the terrible suffering inflicted by the former club official and were appalled that someone in a position of trust could have behaved in such a despicable manner.
A spokesperson told Clare FM that they also held a meeting with parents from the club last night along with the Clare County Board’s Child Welfare officer to assure them that such an incident could never happen again-
They added that Welfare Officer Michael McDonagh was also satisfied that today the club confirms to the highest standards of of Best Practice in terms of Child Protection.
The club goes on to state that while its no comfort to the individuals or families involved in the Maher case – the perpetrator has had no role in Banner GAA for decades and that the club has been fully compliant to the Code of Ethics in Sport for the past decade.
