Calls for investigation after assaults at youth Gaelic football match

Councillor Paul Gallagher says there must be a full investigation into the weekend violence

A councillor has called for a full investigation into the violence which marred a youth Gaelic football match in County Tyrone.

Independent councillor Paul Gallagher spoke out after a boy and a man were injured when fighting broke out during a match between under-16 sides Urney St Columba's and Gortin St Patrick's in Strabane's Ballycolman estate on Saturday afternoon.

Tyrone GAA said it was "aware of an incident which occurred at one of our underage football matches" and added it will be carrying out an investigation into the incident.

Gallagher said he was concerned that a "young person could end up getting killed playing the sport that they love."

The police have confirmed that the injured child needed hospital treatment following the assault.

On Monday, independent councillor Paul Gallagher told BBC News NI it was important that the investigation is prompt and thorough.

He said he was aware of video footage of the incident being circulated on social media.

"It is unbelievable that someone can end up in hospital, not as a result of injury playing football but with an injury from a deliberate assault," he said.

In a statement, Tyrone GAA said it took the incident "most seriously" and was "working closely with the clubs concerned".

Both clubs have been approached for comment.

Police are appealing for anyone with information to contact them.