GAA alcohol and drugs programme to be made compulsory

GAA clubs will have to ensure that they have policies in place in relation to alcohol and substance abuse, or they face not being insured.

GAA clubs will have to ensure that they have policies in place in relation to alcohol and substance abuse, or they face being denied insurance.

Speaking at last night's Offaly GAA Convention at O'Connor Park in Tullamore, the GAA's National ASAP (Alcohol and Substance Abuse Programme) chairman Brendan Murphy said clubs ran the risk of having no insurance if they did not appoint an officer soon.

"Our insurers will ensure that policies are in place in relation to alcohol and substance abuse, and also as ASAP officer to be in place in every club," he said.

"If they don't they won't be insured."

The GAA launched the programme nationally in association with the HSE in April 2008 to help keep their members safe from the negative effects of alcohol and other drugs.

Meanwhile, Leinster senior hurling champions Coolderry were honoured with the Offaly Club of the Year award.