Thirty years ago the GAA's top brass decided that British ministers were not welcome at any of its major events.
This news came to light following a trawl through the confidential State Papers from 1985 which were released today by the National Archives
A letter from Seán Donlon, Department of Foreign Affairs secretary, to Irish Ambassador to London, Noel Dorr on 4 March 1985 provides a fascinating snapshot of the GAA then and how far attitudes in the organisation have progressed since then.
The letter makes reference to a trip to Dublin by Nicholas Scott, parliamentary under-secretary of state at the NIO (Northern Ireland Office).
Mr Scott had expressed to Irish officials his desire to attend an All-Ireland final.
David Kennedy, Aer Lingus chief executive, "who receives complimentary tickets from the GAA asked the General Secretary of the organisation if there might be any objection to bringing Mr Scott in his party".
The letter continues: "The matter was referred to the GAA's Ard Chomhairle which decided to inform David Kennedy that they would not welcome Scott or any other British minister to a major GAA event.
"David Kennedy feels there is no point in raising the matter again in the foreseeable future and he is hoping Mr Scott won't press the matter.
"He has not, or course, told Mr Scott of the GAA's attitude."
