GAA investigation into former Derry manager Rory Gallagher over domestic violence allegations concluded
In May this year, Gallagher’s estranged wife Nicola made a series of allegations against her husband
Rory Gallagher
Rory Gallagher with his wife Nicola, who claimed he abused her
A GAA-commissioned investigation into allegations of domestic violence against former Derry manager Rory Gallagher has concluded.
However, the GAA has refused to reveal details of its findings – or comment on whether or not Gallagher remains “expelled” from the organization.
In May this year, Gallagher’s estranged wife Nicola made a series of allegations against her husband.
She said she suffered domestic violence over a period of 24 years.
Following his wife’s comments in a Facebook post, Rory Gallagher said the allegations had been investigated and dealt with by the relevant authorities.
The PSNI said it investigated two separate alleged incidents last year and passed files to the Public Prosecution Service (PPS).
The PPS said it had concluded there was insufficient evidence to proceed.
Gallagher resigned from his role as Derry manager just days after his estranged wife made the allegations on Facebook.
The Fermanagh man had previously managed his homeland and Donegal football teams.
Ms Gallagher claimed senior figures in the GAA knew about the domestic violence allegations against her husband before she went public with them.
In August the Ulster GAA said it had asked an independent safeguarding panel to investigate Ms Gallagher’s claims.
Rory Gallagher with his wife Nicola, who claimed he abused her
Last month the Sunday World revealed that Rory Gallagher had returned to the GAA through his involvement with the Corduff GAA team in County Monaghan.
Following our story, the Ulster GAA said Gallagher had been “temporarily suspended from the GAA” until the protection panel completed its work.
Ulster GAA confirmed today that the panel has completed its investigation.
A spokesman said Ulster GAA had tasked the panel with “reviewing our response to adult safeguarding practice, particularly where concerns are raised around domestic violence and abuse”.
“We welcome the McGibbon Safeguarding Review Report which has now been submitted to us,” the spokesman said.
“We would like to formally recognize the work of the panel and those who contributed to it and will continue to work with these parties in the future.”
“We will take the time to review the report’s findings and we are committed to implementing the recommendations and advancing key findings from it.
“We reiterate our commitment to the principles of our White Ribbon Pledge and recognize the value of this work to strengthen our safeguarding practices and ensure that all allegations of domestic violence and abuse are appropriately responded to.”