Has the DUP gone GAA GAA?

Peter Robinson recently attended his first GAA match. Apparently he is trying to reach out and avoid the "them and us" mentality. All very laudable.

However, what is not laudable is his failure to ask the GAA to move forward away from its terrorist linked past and into a new future where Unionists could feel comfortable attending pure sporting events.

To do this, the GAA needs to stop flying the flag and playing the anthem of the Republic of Ireland. It needs to rename some of its stadiums which are linked with Provisional IRA and INLA murderers. It needs to transform into a welcoming place for Unionists instead of what some people called it in the past - the IRA at play.

Every other organisation in Northern Ireland must pass equality assessments and meet strict criteria before they receive Government money. Apparently not the GAA. And the DUP don't seem all that bothered about it.

Peter Robinson is right to reach out. But he's wrong to stay quiet about how the GAA is a blockage to a real shared future.

UUP Way Forward

Tom Elliott has rejected a deal with the Conservatives in NI. The deal would have meant a rebranding of the UUP and Conservatives in NI allowing them to become the official Conservative & Unionist Northern Ireland association. This would have given them many advantages including a seat at the top table of decision making in London along with the financial support of Conservative HQ at election time.

However, on this occasion Tom Elliott was unable to see the bigger picture i.e. bringing normal UK politics to Northern Ireland. Isn't that what every Unionist wants?

Tourists in Belfast

Any visitors to Belfast can't avoid Carroll's Irish Gift shop in the heart of the city centre. Arlene Foster is trying to get more tourists to come to Northern Ireland. I wonder has she any opinion on how Carroll's Irish Gifts presents itself as a Republic of Ireland shop in part of the UK. I'm sure the tourists get more than a little confused.