Night Time Gaelic Rolled Out in Newry, Mourne and Down

Newry, Mourne and Down Policing and Community Safety Partnership (PCSP), in conjunction with the East Down and South Armagh GAA Boards, have recently launched the Night Time Gaels Programme. The programme will be running each Friday night throughout the month of February and will aim to encourage young people to take part in sport as opposed to ‘hanging around’ the streets or participating in anti-social behaviour.  

The Programme kicked off on 5 February at St Patrick’s Grammar School, Downpatrick and was attended by up to 160 young people aged between 13 and 15 years old. A number of Clubs from the East Down GAA area got to compete against each other in games of Gaelic football, with the young club members getting a chance to socialise and meet new friends. Week two of the programme continued in Silverbridge GAA Grounds, Armagh on Friday 12 February.

Local Neighbourhood Policing Officers, along with the PCSP Officer, arranged a number of activities for the young people, which highlighted the dangers of alcohol.  Young people also had the opportunity to participate in circuit training and learn about the importance of health and wellbeing.

Chairman of the PCSP, Councillor Mickey Larkin stated “This is a really important message to get across to young people highlighting how participation in sport and physical activity can deter them from becoming involved in anti-social behaviour. Young people are at a loose end during the Winter months and it is essential that they are provided with activities in a safe and fun environment.  It is great to see so many young people together enjoying themselves and being given the opportunity to meet and interact with their local Policing Teams.”

Sean McCashin, Chairperson East Down GAA commented “This is a great initiative and we are delighted to be working in partnership with the Policing & Community Safety Partnership.  Sport plays an important part, not only in encouraging participation and friendship, but also developing skills.”

 For further information on the Night Time Gaels Programme or the role of the PCSP please contact 028 44610840.