NEIL: I'M IN ALLIANZ WITH DOWN

McManus supports Mourne county motion to withdraw from League over sponsors

- BY PAUL KEANE

FORMER Antrim star Neil McManus has supported the Down motion to withdraw from the National League over sponsors Allianz.

McManus has predicted protests throughout the competition too as players make their views known on the divisive issue.

The GAA convened its Ethics and Integrity Commission to consider the role of Allianz in the association and the global insurance giant's links with Israel and the war in Gaza.

A report from UN Special Rapporteur Francesca Albanese highlighted ties between global insurance giants, Israeli 'war bonds' and the genocide in Gaza.

More than 800 current and former county players called on the GAA to end its dealings with Allianz while nine counties formally made the same plea.

But the GAA confirmed on the weekend before Christmas that its 30-plus year association with Allianz will continue.

Down club Saval has since proposed that the county withdraw its teams from the National League in protest.

Speaking at the launch of the latest series of TG4's Laochra Gael, in which he features, McManus said he fully supports the Down recommendation.