New Donegal GAA chairperson Mary Coughlan won’t suffer fools - Jim McGuinness 

Jim McGuinness says the governance of Donegal GAA is in very capable hands under the stewardship of new chairperson Mary Coughlan. 

The former Tánaiste is the first woman to hold the role after she was elected, unopposed, at Donegal GAA’s annual convention back in mid December. 

McGuinness recently admitted that he probably wouldn’t have returned as boss with Donegal had things not hit such a low last term. Off the field, and in the boardroom, matters also sunk to low depths.

But those woes also seemed to spur a real desire for change there with Coughlan now heading up a new and fresh Donegal GAA executive. 

Pressed on what the immediate future might now hold for Donegal GAA, McGuinness explained: “Everyone wants what’s best for Donegal football. 

“The people coming in, please god, will all work together. And we’ll work together with the board. The clubs working closely with the board as well, that’s very important. 

“We’ve a very young squad here and we have to look to develop them. We have to get the group to grow. But equally, there is a lot that needs to be done off the pitch also. 

“You’re talking about the development of underage structures, facilities and resourses. The woman’s game has exploded to great heights, so there is so much to be taken care of. 

“Now that there is a coming together and a feel good factor, hopefully all that moves forward. 

“With Mary at the helm, she’s a woman that’s been there and done that in terms of management. She will not suffer fools and if there are tough decisions to be made she won’t avoid that. 

“So it’s great to have that. Hopefully now, everyone rows in behind that and works towards the common good that is Donegal GAA. 

“And in the weeks and months ahead, we’ll all try to create even more positivity within the county”.