Politicians give their reaction to the decision of the GAA to remove Rule 21.
A special congress of the GAA took the decision to abolish Rule 21, a rule which banned members of the British security forces from playing Gaelic games.
The decision to scrap Rule 21 was welcomed by some politicians who believe it will have a positive contribution to the peace process.
Sinn Féin leader and member of the GAA Gerry Adams was against the decision to drop Rule 21. However, he acknowledged that the decision was not an endorsement of any police force or political party. He said that while he believed the decision has come too soon it is now time for people to unite.
Taoiseach Bertie Ahern welcomed the GAA decision describing it as,
A very significant change.
The decision was also endorsed by Northern Ireland Sports Minister Michael McGimsey who said it was an important move for Gaelic sport.
An RTÉ News report broadcast on 18 November 2001. The reporter is Michael Fisher.
