McGuinness opens new Na Magha clubhouse

Pictured at the official unveiling of the Na Magha clubhouse at Ballyarnett on Saturday afternoon last are (L-R) The Most Reverend Donal McKeown Bishop of Derry, deputy First Minister Martin McGuinness , Dr Feargal McNicholl, Michael Hasson President of the Ulster Council GAA, Brian Smith, Catherine Neary and The Right Reverend Bishop Good CoI, DER2216GS061

Speaking at the event Martin McGuinness said he was impressed with the clubhouse and wished its members the best of luck for the future.

“I am delighted to be here at Pairc na Magha to celebrate the opening of this impressive new facility. The club has come a long way from humble beginnings in 1982 and now has over 300 members, and caters for camogie and h‎urling teams from Under 8s to senior level.

“It’s a credit to the vision and hard work of its founders, past and present members, committees, volunteers and players. This first class sports complex, celebrates the culmination of many years work and they can now look forward to many more years of success and achievement for Na Magha,” said the newly elected MLA for Foyle.

In closing Mr. McGuinness said the opening of the new clubhouse was but the latest chapter in the story of Derry’s relationship with hurling.

“Earlier this week on a visit to the Somme I learned a son of Derry City Patrick Heaney, the great-grandfather of my advisor Conor Heaney played hurling for Derry in the 1909 All-Ireland Hurling Semi Final. So this city has a history of hurling and through Na Magha Hurling and Camogie Club we can look forward to a future of promise and potential.

“Na Magha encapsulates all we wish to achieve in terms of inclusivity, diversity, activity, commitment, community engagement and sporting achievement.

“I wish everyone at Na Magha continued success and many years of enjoyment through hurling and camogie.”