The Football Association of Ireland has issued an apology after a video of Ireland’s ladies performing a song with a pro-IRA chorus surfaced on social media during Tuesday’s World Cup qualification.
The clip depicted the players celebrating in their Hampden Park locker room following their 1-0 victory over Scotland by singing “Ooh ah, up the IRA” – a phrase linked with support for the Irish Republican Army. Celtic Symphony by the Wolfe Tones was released in 1987 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Celtic football club.
The FAI issued the following statement: “The Football Association of Ireland and the Republic of Ireland women’s national team manager Vera Pauw apologize for any offense caused by a song sung by players in the Ireland dressing room following Tuesday night’s Fifa Women’s World Cup qualifying playoff victory over Scotland at Hampden Park.”
Pauw stated, “From the bottom of our hearts, we apologize to anyone who was offended by the substance of our post-match celebrations after qualifying for the World Cup.”
“We will review this with the players and remind them of their obligations in this regard. I have met with players this morning, and we collectively apologize for any harm that may have been caused; there is no justification for this.
The experienced footballer ine O’Gorman reaffirmed the apologies, saying on RTÉ Sport, “We performed a hundred songs last night, and that was the one that didn’t make it. Please accept our sincere apologies to everyone upset.”
Amber Barrett scored the game-winning goal 18 minutes from time to give Ireland a surprising victory against Scotland. She then dedicated her accomplishment to the ten victims of the Creeslough tragedy, stating, “My grandparents were born and raised there. There, I spent the holidays with my uncle. I know individuals who perished in the disaster, who were affected by it, and who were the first responders.
“I’m dedicating my accomplishment to the 10 wonderful people who tragically passed away, for their families. I am aware that they impacted their life, as well as ours. The recipient is Cresslough. This is for County Donegal
Doug Beattie, head of the Ulster Unionist Party, welcomed the apology. He stated, “They have let themselves down.” “Truly disgraceful. Apologies are accepted. The Creeslough dedication moved me. We cannot accept this. We cannot praise a terrorist organization’s deeds.”
