THE Down GAA annual convention took place on 16 December, with over 150 delegates gathered in the Canal Court Hotel, Newry for what proved to be an historic occasion that saw Down GAA elect its first female chairperson.
Maureen O’Higgins of Liatroim Fontenoys, succeeded outgoing chair John Devaney who had completed his five year term.
Maureen is a former County Development Officer and Ulster Council member, who has been county vice chairperson for the past five years.
She is also a former county camogie player, who won All Ireland honours as a player with both club and county.
Indeed, it is a double honour for Maureen’s family, as her mum, Rosaleen, is the president of the Down Camogie Committee. This is a great honour for the McCartan and O’Higgins’ families and indeed also for the Liatroim club.
Maureen follows the late Charlie Keown, by becoming the second chairperson to come from the famous Fontenoys.
In his outgoing address, John Devaney reflected on his five years in office, highlighting the launch of the Strategic Plan, the success on the field in football and hurling which culminated in five trophies, including the Tailteann Cup, and having a home in Down in 2024.
The achievement of funding for the Centre of Participation, Well Being and Shared Learning Hub, has been one of the highlights of 2024, as this will allow Down GAA to bring an exciting project to fruition.
John encouraged everyone to put their shoulder to the wheel to ensure that we deliver the best facilities for future generations to come.
The Down GAA county convention saw the election of the following officers:
Chairperson – Maureen O’Higgins (Liatroim), Vice Chairperson – Patrick Savage (Teconnaught), Assistant Secretary – Ryan Kelly (Ardglass), Treasurer – Diarmuid Cahill (An Riocht).
Assistant Treasurer – Michael O’Rourke (An Riocht), Ard Comhairle Delegate – Conor Watson (Ballygalget), Ulster Council Delegate one – Mark Doyle (Liatroim), Ulster Council Delegate two – Brendan Fitzpatrick (Bryansford).
PRO – Paula Magee (Mayobridge), Coaching Officer – Paddy Hardy (Castlewellan), Irish and Cultural Officer – Gareth McGreevy (Saul), Hurling Officer – Liam Quinn (Bredagh), Planning and Training Officer- (to be appointed).
