Tom Elliott, Ulster Unionist MP for Fermanagh & South Tyrone, has welcomed prominent GAA figure Jarlath Burns' comments on the possibility of reforming GAA rules to take account of unionist concerns.
Mr Elliott said:
"It is widely recognised that most within the unionist community have not become involved in the GAA due to many elements that are of a purely Irish nationalist tradition and in a number of instances have demonstrated support for militant Irish Republicanism.
"I welcome Jarlath`s comments and take them as a positive step forward. They have the potential to open up a conversation whereby many of the issues can be discussed and hopefully addressed.
"I think it's unlikely that I will ever become the GAA`s 'biggest fan', but if there is a genuine willingness this could represent an opportunity to build a better understanding, knowledge and participation in GAA sports amongst Unionists."