Rory Gallagher Commences Legal Proceedings Against Jarlath Burns & The GAA, Following Naas Debacle

Monday, 7 April 2025 09:00

By Eoin Beatty

That's according to the Irish Independent over the weekend

According to the Irish Independent, former Derry football manager Rory Gallagher has initiated legal action against the GAA and its president, Jarlath Burns, following the latter's interference in Gallagher's appointment as a coach for the Naas senior football team earlier this year.

Gallagher's legal team has served the proceedings on the GAA’s solicitors.

According to the Irish Times, the GAA declined to comment on the matter on Friday.

In January, it was revealed that Gallagher was set to join Naas senior football management.

However, after public criticism and an intervention by Burns, who emailed the club expressing his concerns, Naas GAA reversed its decision to appoint Gallagher.

Gallagher, a former player for Fermanagh and Cavan, resigned as Derry manager in May 2023 after his ex-wife, Nicola, made allegations of domestic abuse.

A PSNI investigation resulted in no charges.

“I categorically deny the allegations made against me. I have followed every available procedure,” Gallagher stated in a January release.

“The PPS has issued two separate decisions clearing me of any wrongdoing. I have full custody of my three children, and, most importantly, I complied with the GAA's procedures, which lifted my disbarment.”

In the same statement, Gallagher called on Burns to retract his actions in contacting Naas GAA.

While Burns acknowledged that he had no authority to influence the club’s decision, he expressed his concern that Gallagher's appointment could have significant implications.