The GAA is set to continue its relationship with Allianz despite calls from a number of county boards to end its association with the insurance group following a report which alleged the company profited from Israeli forces being in Gaza.

Yesterday (Friday) saw a meeting of the GAA's An Coiste Bainistíochta take place and, after hearing a report from the Ethics and Integrity Commission on the issue, the decision was taken to accept the recommendation of the EIC.

Earlier this year, the company was named in a UN report as being involved in sustaining and paying for Israel’s actions in Palestine.

The Antrim, Armagh, Derry, Down, Tyrone, Fermanagh, Offaly, Roscommon and Leitrim all passed motions at their county conventions calling for the GAA to cut ties with the insurance giant, but the Association has stood firm after reviewing the EIC’s report and released the following statement yesterday to outline its reasons for doing so.

"If the GAA was to terminate its contracts with Allianz it would be impossible to secure an alternative insurer that would not have similar links,” it read.

"The unilateral termination of the contract with Allianz plc by the GAA could expose the Association to legal consequences apart from loss of sponsorship.

"The GAA is ethically and legally bound to honour its contracts and a failure to do so has the potential to damage its reputation and undermine its ability to do business with commercial entities.

"Allianz plc has no involvement with the IDF or corporate entities involved in the war in Gaza. Any such relationship is with a 'sibling or cousin company'.

"The report also advised the Association to encourage Allianz plc to use its influence to encourage other companies within the group to act in accordance with Irish, European and International Law.

"Similarly, it also advised that all contractual arrangements are assessed to ensure that parties with whom the Association's units are doing business are not engaged in unethical activities."

A statement from Allianz on Friday evening also read: "We acknowledge the conclusion of the GAA Ethics and Integrity Commission that, following their thorough and careful assessment, Allianz p.l.c is aligned with the standards set out in its ethical framework.

"For clarity, Allianz p.l.c. confirms that it has no holdings in the government bonds referenced in a report by the current UN Special Rapporteur on the occupied Palestinian territories, has no relationship with Elbit Systems and does not engage in any investment or underwriting activity connected to the Middle East. We have been transparent about this factual position throughout.

"We appreciate the seriousness and independence with which the Commission has conducted its work. This process has provided independent assurance on a complex issue and confirms that the partnership can continue on a clear and informed basis.

"The GAA sits at the heart of Irish community life, and Allianz p.l.c. is proud to support Gaelic Games, volunteers, schools and local clubs across Ireland. We look forward to continuing that work in the seasons ahead."

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