Gardaí are investigating an alleged assault on a GAA referee in Wexford yesterday.

The alleged incident happened after a Junior ‘A’ football championship match between St Joseph’s and Our Lady’s Island at Whiterock Hill.

In a statement, Wexford GAA said it was aware of the incident.

“Wexford GAA are disappointed that such an incident arose and strongly condemns any threatening or abusive behaviour towards our match officials of any kind,” it said.

“We would like to wish the officials involved in this incident a speedy recovery.”

It said it will carry out a full investigation and support Gardaí in their inquiries.

Referee

Speaking to South East Radio this morning Wexford GAA Chair Michéal Martin said his thoughts were with the referee involved.

“I just want to wish the official at the centre here well,” he said.

“I think that is foremost in our minds this morning. Thankfully, there doesn’t seem to be a serious injury but this is a serious incident that is now under investigation both by ourselves and by An Garda Síochána.”

Mr Martin said a lack of respect for officials and decision-makers is a problem across society that has now transcended into sport.

Protection

He said Wexford GAA takes the protection of match officials very seriously.

“If we don’t have referees, we don’t have games,” he said.

“We need Government policy; we need GAA policy. We need all sports to sit down together here and tackle this issue very, very seriously.

“Refs should be safe from physical harm or verbal abuse. The reality is, without referees, we don’t have our games.

“The referees go out to try and officiate a game to the best of their ability the same way as administrators, players and coaches – everyone is trying their best in what is a voluntary organisation.

“We’re all part of the one organisation and every piece of that requires and deserves respect.”

Gardaí said they are carrying out enquiries into the alleged incident.