LIMERICK GAA hosted a unique and historic reception at the Greenhills Hotel on Sunday last prior to the Credit Union Senior Hurling Final, as a mark of respect to the Daly family who presented the Daly Cup to Limerick GAA in 1928.
This, the most coveted piece of silverware in Limerick Hurling, was presented to the County Board in 1928 by Johns niece, Madge Daly.
Madge’s brother Ned Daly was executed following the 1916 rising in Kilmainham Gaol along with Proclamation signatory Thomas Clarke, who was married to another sister, Kathleen Daly.
Secretary of Limerick GAA Michael O Riordan said “We felt it was fitting in the Centenary of the 1916 Rising to pay tribute to the Daly family given the status and recognition of the Daly Cup in Limerick hurling.”
Oliver Mann Cathaoirleach of Limerick GAA presented a sprightly 88 year old, Mairead de hOir, niece of Ned Daly, with a framed piece recognising the occasion. “Given the centenary of 1916, we felt it was important in Limerick GAA to acknowledge and celebrate this historic gesture and I wish to thank Paul Foley and Siobhan Scanlon for their work in organising the event today” said Oliver.
Mayor of Limerick Kieran O Hanlon attended along with Deputies Niall Collins, Maurice Quinlivan, Senator Kieran O Donnell, Councillor Sean Lynch and Liam Lenihan Leas Cathaoirleach of Munster GAA.
Representatives of both clubs contesting the 2016 final were at the reception along with members of the Credit Union movement. Mr Noel Earlie represented JP McManus and Limerick archivists Jacqui Hayes and Dr Matthew Potter also attended
In addressing the reception on behalf of the Daly family, Michael O’Nolan said “My father was a founder member of Tyrone GAA and the family continue to be active in GAA as I have a son who plays Gaelic Football with Zaragoza in Spain. We are very honoured as a family to be acknowledged here today in Limerick”.
