Derry Senior football manager, Rory Gallagher has responded after his wife, from whom he is separated, posted a statement on Facebook detailing over two decades of alleged domestic abuse.

Nicola Gallagher posted on Facebook on May 9 detailing harrowing incidents of alleged domestic violence.

Mrs. Gallagher said she was speaking out, stating: "Silence isn't the answer, I tried that, I thought I was protecting my children, the only person I was protecting was him. Please anyone who's been through this, speak out. Silence nearly killed me."

Rory  Gallagher said the allegations made against him have been investigated and dealt with by the relevant authorities before.

He, is currently preparing his Derry side for an Ulster Final against Armagh on Sunday and there has been no indication as to whether or not he will be involved in the game.

Derry GAA were contacted for comment regarding the allegations and asked if they had spoken to Mr. Gallagher and if he would be involved.

In a short statement a spokesperson for Derry GAA said: ""Derry GAA condemns all forms of domestic violence. We encourage anyone who has experienced domestic violence to report it to the relevant authorities immediately." 

In a statement through his solicitors, Mr. Gallagher said: "I have been made aware of a social media post by my estranged wife Nicola Gallagher in which she has made a number of very serious allegations against me.

“Our marriage broke down over four years ago. Those closest to our family are well aware of the reasons for the breakdown of our marriage and the continued issues we have faced since that time.

“Following long running court proceedings in Family Courts in both jurisdictions, I was granted a full Residence Order in respect of our three young children on February 17 2023. This outcome was recommended by social services."

Mr. Gallagher said the allegations made against him have been investigated and dealt with by the relevant authorities before continuing: “My focus over the past four years has been to protect our children from the ongoing turmoil in our family.

“I have left this matter in the hands of my legal team and ask that the privacy of our family is respected at this time. I will not be making any further public comment on this matter.”