GAA back to its roots.

Byline: STEVEN MCCAFFERY

THE GAA put down roots at Stormont for the first time yesterday as it marked its 125th anniversary with a tree-planting ceremony.

An Irish ash was placed near the statue of unionist icon Edward Carson whose little-known support for hurling was recalled.

The wood from the tree is used to make hurling and camogie sticks. Ulster GAA president Tom Daly and Sinn Fein president Gerry Adams confirmed a further 1,000 saplings will be planted elsewhere on the estate.

Mr Adams, who hosted the event, said: "The GAA brings together individuals and communities like no other organisation."

SDLP leader Mark Durkan and the Alliance Party's Kieran McCarthy also addressed the event which took place despite heavy rain. Trevor Ringland, an UUP member who chairs the One Small Step organisation that tackles divisions, also attended.

Mr Daly thanked Stormont Estate authorities and public leaders who facilitated this event SDLP leader Mark Durkan said: "Just as this ash tree will grow, flourish and strengthen, so too will the GAA."

Stormont yesterday

CAPTION(S):

BRANCHING OUT Guests gather around the historic tree PRIDE Adams talks to crowd A SITE FOR SORE EYES GAA chief Tom Daly and Gerry Adams at Stormont yesterday