Rory Gallagher steps aside as Derry GAA boss after estranged wife's allegations of domestic abuse

Rory Gallagher has stepped aside as Derry's senior football manager. Credit: Inpho

Rory Gallagher has stepped aside as Derry's senior football manager.

Police confirmed they investigated "a number of incidents" following allegations of domestic abuse made by the wife of Derry GAA manager Rory Gallagher.

"I have advised Derry GAA that I am stepping back as Derry senior football manager with immediate effect," Mr Gallagher said in a statement.

He said he made the decision to enable him to focus on his family.

Derry GAA said that Ciaran Meenagh will take on the role of Derry senior football manager.

The reigning Ulster Senior Football champions are due to defend their title against Armagh at Clones.

Nicola Gallagher's social media post earlier this week was widely shared and commented on by a number of prominent public figures, including politicians.On Friday, SDLP MLA Cara Hunter has called for Derry GAA manager Mr Gallagher to stand aside.

Files were submitted to the Public Prosecution Service, however, prosecutors found there was not enough evidence to take the matter to court.

In a statement, the PPS said it received two investigation files from the PSNI.

"All the available evidence in these two files was considered in line with the PPS Code for Prosecutors," the PPS said.

"It was determined that there was insufficient evidence to provide a reasonable prospect of conviction for any offence in relation to any individual.

"Decisions not to prosecute any individual issued in January 2022 and September 2022."

It is understood An Garda Síochána has engaged with an individual involved, but no formal complaint has been received.

Mr Gallagher is one of the most prominent figures in the GAA. He won the Ulster title with Derry last year and the McKenna cup this year. He led Derry to promotion from division two to division one.

He played for Fermanagh and was assistant coach to Jim McGuinness in Donegal's all-Ireland winning campaign in 2012.

Ulster GAA provincial secretary and chief executive Brian McAvoy added: "While we cannot comment or make judgement on any specific allegation or allegations, Ulster GAA does not condone any form of domestic violence. We are proud to have joined with White Ribbon NI in pledging to never commit, condone or remain silent about violence against women.

"We encourage and support anyone who has been a victim of such abuse not to suffer in silence but to avail of the statutory and voluntary support services that are available in the community."

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