BY ALAN RODGERS

A.RODGERS@GAELICLIFE.COM

A PETITION is now among the options being considered by a number of Derry GAA clubs to overturn a controversial decision to cancel gaelic games coaching at a local mixed grammar school.

Hundreds of children were left kicking their heels after Limavady Grammar School called off a planned session. But now the Association in the area is planning to step-up its campaign to have the move reversed.

Officials of the Drumsurn, Glack, Faughanvale, Magilligan and Limavady clubs are to meet on Monday night to discuss their next move. They are determined to ensure that the young players at the school are given the chance to learn the skills of football.

The Derry County Board has joined the chorus of concern about the move. And, the Chairman of Limavady Wolfhounds says that they are struggling to understand the thinking which prompted the decision.

"The clubs concerned are at a loss as to why the atmosphere of tolerance which exists in the community cannot continue within an educational environment," Rory O'Hara told Gaelic Life.

"The overhwhelming feeling among the local clubs is one of disappointment. Children were so disappointed and the parents are anxious to see their children upset in this way.

"All those involved were delighted that the coaching was being organised and couldn't wait for it to take place. To then have the whole thing cancelled without explanation angered a lot of people.

"What we have to remember is that no-one is going to be forced into playing gaelic games at the school. It was only going to be provided for those who expressed an interest," he added.

Another decision up for discussion at Monday night's meeting will be a possible appeal to the Equality Commission on the issue.

It is believed that the session was cancelled following objections from a number of members of staff. The school has declined to comment publicly on the matter, although it is reckoned that several hundred pupils would have been willing to participate in coaching if it had been extended throughout all year groups.

"This coaching was not going to demand any resources from the school as the Derry County Board and the clubs were going to provide all the equipment and coaching expertise," continued Rory O'Hara.

"Community relations in Limavady are generally good and the various sporting clubs in the town have a good relationship with the GAA.

"This is the nearest grammar school to several clubs in the locality, so sending the children elsewhere is not an option that parents will be considering," he added.

Hopes had been high that the coaching could in time lead to a team representing Limavady Grammar taking part in Blitzes against other schools in the county.

It is estimated that some 40% of the pupils at the school are from a nationalist background.