A coaching ban for the former Derry GAA football manager Rory Gallagher has been lifted by the Disputes Resolution Authority.
Mr Gallagher (45) had stepped down as Derry manager in May last year after his estranged wife Nicola Gallagher alleged he subjected her to domestic violence and abuse over a 24-year period.
At the time, Mr Gallagher said the claims had been “investigated and dealt with by the relevant authorities.”
Police had submitted files to prosecutors, but it was determined in 2022 there was not enough evidence to proceed with a case.
Mr Gallagher continued coaching with Corduff in Monaghan, but by September Ulster GAA “temporarily debared” him from all GAA activity while a safeguarding panel investigated the allegations.
In October, Ulster GAA confirmed they had received the safeguarding report and were reflecting on the findings which have not been made public.
Mr Gallagher took an appeal against the temporary ban, which was heard by the DRA on February 1.
The 19-page decision circulated on Wednesday morning read: “In the circumstances, our award will declare invalid the decision of the Respondents to impose debarment on the claimant and to refuse the appeal taken by the claimant against that decision.”
Mr Gallagher is now free to resume his coaching career.
Ulster GAA and Mr Gallagher’s representatives have been contacted for a response.
