Down senior hurling manager Ronan Sheehan says it’s a positive sign overall to see the government setting aside €750,000 to grow hurling in non-traditional areas.

Tuesday’s annual budget saw the figure set aside to go towards the growth of the small ball game in non-traditional counties and Sheehan has been one of many to welcome the news.

Speaking to RTE Sport, the Mourne County boss praised Willie Maher, who was appointed the GAA's National Head of Hurling at the start of this year, and others for their work while also pointing out that middle-tier counties should benefit from the exchequer funding as well.

"Non-traditional counties have been mentioned but I would examine what defines a traditional area," Sheehan is quoted saying by RTE Sport.

"Kerry is obviously a football county, but it has traditional hurling areas. Carlow has its strongholds too, but should the GAA also look at redirecting money to Carlow town where there is a big population?

"I know counties who play in the Nicky Rackard or Lory Meagher Cups will be on the radar for such funds but some of this money could also be used to strengthen middle-tier counties.

"I’m talking of counties where there is now a population to grow the game, even if they haven’t always had a significant traditional presence.

"Overall, though, it’s a really positive sign that the Government has committed to the special status of the game, and I hope they build on that in future years.

"I also hope that extra money will also be made available from the association itself to support the work that Willie and his team are doing."

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