The SDLP Stormont Assembly member for East Derry, Cara Hunter, has called on Derry football manager Rory Gallagher to step aside from his role ahead of this Sunday's Ulster final against Armagh.
Serious allegations were made this week against Gallagher by his ex-wife on social media. Nicola Gallagher accused the Derry manager of multiple instances of domestic violence during their marriage.
In a statement released on Thursday, Rory Gallagher responded to the allegations, stating that the allegations had been "investigated and dealt with by the relevant authorities."
Rory Gallagher further asked for privacy and stated that the matter had been left in the hands of his legal team, and that he would make no further comment on the matter.
SDLP MLA Cara Hunter has spoken on the issue ahead of Derry's game against Armagh in the Ulster senior football championship on Sunday afternoon.
Hunter, the Stormont Assembly member for East Derry with the SDLP, called on Gallagher to step aside from his role, saying that young women from the county would be unable to support the Derry side with Gallagher present on the sideline, given the severity of the allegations made against him.
Her statement read:
Given the seriousness of the issues exposed this week I do not believe it is appropriate for Rory Gallagher to lead the Derry team ahead of the Ulster Final. He should do the right thing and stand aside.
Domestic violence is an insidious issue that infects communities across Ireland and blights the daily lives of women and girls. It leaves lives shattered and people fearing for their safety in their own homes.
There are women and girls across our community and across Ireland who will not be able to support his leadership of the team. They need to be respected and their voice needs to be heard, especially by Derry GAA. This is a moment for strong leadership and to stand with people from across our communities who have been victims of the most horrific abuse.
Derry GAA needs to send a strong message of support to women and girls in our community right now. This is a test for the county board and for those in positions of leadership. There is only one acceptable outcome.
Reports on Friday confirmed that the PSNI had investigated a number of reported incidents in relation to the alleged abuse, but chose not to prosecute due to "insufficient evidence to provide a reasonable prospect of conviction."
