Aogán Ó Fearghail has described former GAA President Jack Boothman as a great club man after it was announced he had passed away this morning.
An active member of Blessington GAA club in Wicklow where he remained club president, Boothman was elected president of the Association in 1994, becoming the first Protestant to assume the role.
Boothman served for three years and championed the abolition of Rule 21, which debarred members of the British security forces from joining the GAA.
"The last conversation I had with him recently he told me ‘don’t forget about the clubs"
The current GAA President said that Boothman “served the GAA with distinction” and highlighted his commitment to the club game as a crucial part of his presidency.
“I had the privilege of knowing him since the 1980s and have very fond memories of attending an Irish language course with him and Joe McDonagh in the Meath Gaeltacht of Rath Chairn. He was great company,” he said.
“He had great interest in the club and the last conversation I had with him recently he told me ‘don’t forget about the clubs.’
“On behalf of the Association as a whole I would like to offer my condolences to his wife Nuala and his extended family and his wide circle of friends.”
With heavy hearts. Jack Boothman club President @BlessingtonGaa has passed. Ar anam De go raibh a anam dilis. Funeral arrangements TBC.
— Blessington GAA (@BlessingtonGaa) May 10, 2016
