Taoiseach hails ‘healthy growth’ in ladies game

THE Taoiseach endorsed the growing attraction of Ladies Football in Ireland when he formally launched the Suzuki National League in Croke Park this week.

With nearly 120,000 registered members, he said that nobody could be in any doubt about the appeal of the sport — adding that the Government was delighted to see this ‘healthy growth’ because of their recognition of the importance of increasing the level of women participation in sport.

Mr Ahern told the guests, who included the Japanese Ambassador and GAA President Nickey Brennan, that it was Government policy to give greater priority to projects which demonstrated greater involvement of women.

In the past year, the Ladies Football Association had benefited to the tune of €314,000 and this had helped to fund the appointment of Regional Games Development Officers (2) in Connacht and Ulster.

Association CEO Helen O’Rourke stressed the value of the Suzuki sponsorship, saying that they had developed a very successful partnership with the company since they came on board five years ago.

In turn, Managing Director Niall O’Gorman pointed out that their sales had grown 100% since the start of their involvement.

This year’s League will feature a separate competition for ‘B’ teams, with the 32 counties divided into three groupings.

“Counties are showing an increased interest in the competition,’’ said Ms O’Rourke. “We find that they are really making the most of it to prepare for the championship.’’

Association President Geraldine Giles is satisfied that the new format will result in a greater level of competitiveness throughout the divisions. “It will further facilitate the development of our game and give all counties the opportunity to play competitive inter-county football,’’ she commented.