GAA Integration for all codes to start in 2027

The Camogie Association, the GAA and the LGFA have announced 2027 as the proposed date for their plans for full integration between the three organisations.

Over the past 18 months the views of members and officials across all three associations have been sought and following detailed discussions in the period since, 2027 has been earmarked as the proposed date for completion of the process.

The Steering Group for Integration, chaired by former Uachtarán na hÉireann Mary McAleese, has been charged with devising proposals which will be put to the membership of the three organisations with a view to full integration.

In the coming weeks the Annual Congresses of the three bodies will be updated on the work of the last year and a half and plans for the next 36 months.

With detailed feedback gained from the extensive listening process which amongst other elements involved 30,000 respondents to Ireland’s largest ever survey, cross-organisational working groups, representing both staff and the volunteer base of the organisations, were established in November of 2023.

Tasked with addressing areas highlighted throughout the listening process such as Facilities, Finance, Fixtures, Human Resources, Membership and Player Welfare, these groups worked through the finer details and considerations of how each of these areas could operate in an integrated organisation.

Proposals from these working groups, coupled with feedback from the consultative process with county boards, provincial councils, player representatives, staff and members provided the basis on which the pathway to Integration has been developed.

Among these proposals there were specific recommendations around alignment of membership, the development of models to facilitate facility management and opportunities to review fixtures throughout 2024.

Iar-Uachtaráin na hÉireann, Mary McAleese, Chair of the Steering Group on Integration, said: “The Steering Group on Integration, after 18 months of intense listening and discussion, has now a recommended pathway to what will be the most historic development in Gaelic games and that is One Association for all of Gaelic games by 2027.

“Gaelic games are about to enter a new era. We are now at a point where the will of the members of the Gaelic Games Associations on integration can be delivered if our recommendations are followed and acted upon and made real.”

Camogie Association President Hilda Breslin said: “Today marks a significant milestone for the Camogie Association, signifying a thrilling new chapter in our journey.

“Today is filled with excitement as we embark on a path of progress, merging to become one club, one county, one province, one congress, one association.

“This momentous step towards unity, equality and inclusivity is a testament to our shared goal of creating an environment that champions excellence and supports the holistic development of our players.

“Our vision is to foster the growth of Gaelic games and contribute to the overall health and wellbeing of the people of Ireland. Central to the realisation of this vision is our dedicated volunteer network, the backbone of our association.”