THREE Ulster boxing clubs have called for an Irish Athletic Boxing Association (IABA) investigation following comments that sparked a walk-out during a meeting about the sport’s international future.
Ahead of an upcoming vote on whether to remain part of the International Boxing Association (IBA) or join rival body World Boxing, formed in a bid to secure boxing’s Olympic future, the IABA held a series of information meetings last week.
After road-shows in Munster, Leinster and Connacht, representatives from Ulster clubs attended Saturday’s event - led by new IABA board of directors chair Niall O’Carroll - at Girdwood Community Hub in Belfast.
However, comments from Malachy Scott - who is secretary of the County Antrim Board - resulted in representatives from Midland, Monkstown and Rathcoole Boxing Club walking out.
Claiming political motivations played a part in the formation of World Boxing, Scott questioned the merits of the IABA joining forces with America and Britain in the new body, saying “these two countries are the most war-mongering countries in the world, never mind centuries of treachery”.
- ‘Offensive' comments spark walk-out at boxing future meeting
Scott immediately withdrew the comments, upon invitation from Ulster Council president Kevin Duffy, and later insisted it had not been his intention to cause offence. A separate statement was subsequently issued on behalf of the provincial body and the County Antrim Board, pointing out that Scott’s comments “do not reflect the ethos of our organisation”.
In a letter sent to Niall O’Carroll on behalf of Midland, Monkstown and Rathcoole boxing clubs - and seen by The Irish News – a series of concerns were raised about Saturday’s meeting.
“I am writing to bring to your attention a matter of great concern involving an incident that occurred during this morning’s engagement event at Girdwood Shared Space Community Hub,” reads the letter.
“It is ever more disappointing that the comments were made in a venue developed by Belfast City Council, to bring communities together into a safe and neutral space, only to be exposed to such insensitive and inappropriate statements.
“As you will be aware, such hurtful comments made by the Co Antrim Board secretary, one of the association’s largest units, not only reflect poorly on the individual but also casts a negative light on the entire membership of Irish boxing.
“The comments made, referring to the British having inflicted ‘centuries of tyranny and treachery’, are deeply troubling and have the potential to create divisions and animosity within the boxing community in Northern Ireland.
“With several current and former members of our clubs either serving or have served in the British Army with distinction, these divisive comments are devastatingly harmful to the coaches present, some of whom have served in His Majesty’s forces themselves.
“Moreover, boxing in Northern Ireland has been one of the success stories throughout the Troubles, bringing young people together through the medium of sport in some of the country’s darkest days.
“Evidently, this incident alongside others in recent years such as the sectarianism experienced by the Sandy Row boxing club, points a light on how much work still needs to be done to deal with inclusiveness and good relations, particularly at a leadership level.
“The spirit of sportsmanship, respect and inclusivity lies at the core of Irish boxing, and incidents like this undermine the values that we hold dear. It is disheartening to witness such behaviour from an officer of our esteemed organisation, as it does not align with the principles we all aim to uphold.”
The letter goes on to state that the comments in question were “not representative of the beliefs and attitudes held by the vast majority of boxing’s membership”, pointing to “several phone calls and messages of support from other clubs” in the wake of Saturday’s meeting, before calling upon the IABA to investigate the matter.
“This investigation will not only hold the individual accountable for their actions but also demonstrate the commitment of Irish boxing to ensuring a safe, respectful, and inclusive environment for all its members.
“In addition to the investigation, I urge you and fellow Board of Directors to consider implementing the recommendations of the 2013 Duncan Morrow report, on promoting cultural sensitivity, diversity, and understanding among officers and members of Irish boxing.
“By fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect and empathy, we can ensure that such incidents are prevented in the future. I believe that a swift and decisive response from the leadership of Irish boxing will not only rectify the immediate concern but also reinforce the organisation’s dedication to maintaining the highest standards of conduct and sportsmanship.”
