More than 50 matches are off across Gaelic games in Kilkenny this weekend as match officials strike over an abusive letter allegedly sent to a referee.
The cancelled fixtures in hurling, camogie, Gaelic football and ladies football were confirmed at a county board meeting last night, and arose after local referees refused to officiate at the games.
Local gardaí are investigating the letter.
A statement issued to clubs from the Kilkenny GAA county board secretary read: "Kilkenny Co Board has been informed that its referees are withdrawing their services this weekend [Friday to Monday inclusive] to highlight incidents of abuse directed at match officials in recent times.
"Kilkenny GAA does not condone any abusive behaviour and fully supports the GAA ethos of respecting our match officials. Our match officials are integral to the provision of games and all members of the GAA family, players, mentors and supporters must acknowledge and respect this going forward.
"Kilkenny GAA will not be issuing any further comment at this time."
Kilkenny Camogie subsequently issued a statement saying "All the GAA referees have decided to withdraw their services for games from today till Monday inclusive. Our camogie referees will do the same in solidarity of their colleagues. Abuse cannot and will not be tolerated at any level to our match officials."
