INTERNATIONAL RULES:MICKEY HARTE has called on the GAA to reinstate the interprovincial championships and abandon the International Rules series.

The return of the international series between Ireland and Australia after a two-year break has coincided with a decision to suspend the interpros, a move that has angered the Tyrone manager. “We sideline the Railway Cup this year while that (International Rules) is on. To me that’s adding insult to injury,” said Harte.

And he said it’s important the suspension of the interprovincials does not become permanent. “That needs to be resurrected. It would be a real travesty if it is not resurrected. It is the truly representative competition, above county level.

“People are talking about wanting to represent as high up the scale as they can. That is the highest you can get.

“It once was a wonderful competition, and there’s no reason why it can’t become that again. But it will take time, effort and the will to make it happen. Unfortunately the will to make it happen seems to be absent at the minute from those who can make it happen.

“There’s a will from others, but they’re not getting the proper support, I believe, at this stage.”

Although Harte has long been a vociferous opponent of the International Rules series, Tyrone has always been heavily represented on Ireland teams.

A number of Red Hand stars are set to feature once again in the two-game series in Limerick and Croke Park later this month, and one concern of the Tyrone boss is the risk of injury. “Of course I would be concerned about that.”

But he will not stand in the way of any players who wish to represent their country.

“Players are free to do what they will, and I suppose they see it as an honour to technically get this playing for Ireland recognition.

“But unfortunately for me, they’re not playing Gaelic football for Ireland, so I don’t really rate it as an Irish thing, as such.”