GPA insists mandate for integration remains overwhelming

In the wake of Mary McAleese’s resignation as chairperson of the steering committee on integration, the GPA released a statement saying their successful motion passed at Annual Congress in 2022 must be respected.

The GPA thanked McAleese for her efforts over the four years.

The Gaelic Players Association (GPA) insist the mandate for integration remains overwhelming following the news the merger of the three Gaelic sports bodies will not meet the 2027 deadline.

In the wake of former President of Ireland Mary McAleese’s resignation as chairperson of the steering committee on integration, the GPA released a statement saying their successful motion passed at Annual Congress in 2022 must be respected.

The motion, which was backed by almost 90% of delegates in Bekan four years ago, read: “That the GAA shall prioritise integration with the LGFA (Ladies Gaelic Football Association) and Camogie Association (CA) in order to ensure equal investment, recognition and opportunity for all genders to play all sports in the Gaelic Games family.” 

Although it had been critical at times of the steering committee’s lack of communication, the GPA thanked McAleese for her efforts over the four years.

“Mary took on an enormously important and complex task and has made a significant contribution to progressing the integration of Gaelic games. We share her disappointment that the agreed roadmap towards integration has now been disrupted.”

It laid out five questions it will be seeking clarity on from the GAA: “What has changed since the agreed roadmap and April 2027 timeline were established? How was the decision to move away from that roadmap reached, and through what governance process?

“Why was such a significant change not raised with the GPA when we met with senior GAA leadership within the past week? What definitive pathway and timeline for integration will now replace the agreed roadmap? How will the overwhelming mandate provided by players, GAA Congress and the wider membership be respected in determining the next steps?” 

The official inter-county players body said it will be speaking to its membership about their next course of action.

“Players have consistently and overwhelmingly supported integration and will not accept an indefinite delay or a retreat from the commitment that has been made.

“Over the coming days, the GPA will consult with players to determine our next steps. Players have been clear about the future they want for Gaelic games.

“The GPA remains fully committed to integration and to achieving equal recognition, investment and opportunity for everyone who plays our games.” 

In 2021, the GPA integrated with the Women’s Gaelic Players Association. In October last year, GPA chief executive Tom Parsons wrote to the Oireachtas committee on sport, insisting “equality cannot wait until 2027. Leadership must begin now.”