GAA president Christy Cooney has insisted that the new fencing in front of Hill 16 does not impede on spectators' viewing.

The controversial barrier passed its first test yesterday as the second All-Ireland football semi-final between Down and Kildare passed off without any supporters encroaching on the pitch.

"It is not a traditional fence," Cooney said.

"Razor wire is not a feature of the installation and it will in no way impede on patrons viewing our games from a part of the ground that we are keen to keep as a standing area for a variety of reasons.

"I would call on commentators to forget about the populist line and to fully contemplate what is involved in this process as we strive to ensure the health and safety of our players, spectators, match officials and stewards. Everything else is of secondary importance." Tweet

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