Steering group update on integration

THERE has been an update on the steering group for integration.

Here it is in full..

“In 2022, motions were passed at Camogie, GAA & LGFA Congresses which would see a prioritisation of integration across all three bodies. This motion received overwhelming backing from all three Congress with 92% support, across the three.

“The first formal meeting of the Steering Group on Integration (SGI) took place in October 2022, in Croke Park, chaired by iar-Uachtarán na hÉireann Mary McAleese.

“Since the inception of the process, a number of cross-associational working groups have been established, comprising of individuals with expertise in that area. A crucial part of this work required the skills and knowledge provided by those with experience in the areas highlighted as requiring attention. Tasked with addressing various areas, these groups collaborate to work through the finer details and considerations of how each of the impacted areas will operate in an integrated association.

“At the April 2025 SGI meeting, a Central Fixtures Oversight Committee was formally established. The purpose of this group is to take a wide-angle view of fixtures across the three associations with a long-term vision for fixtures in one association. There is also a requirement for a high-level vision towards integrated fixtures which would see the development of a protocol around the provision of facilities across all codes, in one association.

“The development of this group is seen as a significant step towards full integration of Camogie, GAA & LGFA and a fixtures programme for all.

“Another current working group has taken on the challenge of delivering a new structure for both a County Board/Committee and Provincial Council, in a new integrated association. Ger Ryan (Former Munster GAA Chairperson) is the Chairperson of the group and they remain committed to delivering on the task at hand before the end of 2025.

“This will allow for amendments to be made to the proposals before written in to rule. ‘One Clubs’ are successfully operating in a number of counties across the country.

“Research is ongoing currently into the lived experiences of those who are members of One Clubs. To date four focus groups have been conducted with feedback on their experiences to date. The goal is to update the current One Club Model to all clubs across the country by the end 2025. Successful completion of this task will aid and encourage other clubs who are reviewing how they operate and how they organise different codes across the wider Gaelic games family.

“Another of the working groups is focusing on the move towards ‘One Membership’ for all. This is a complex piece of work involving experts across the three associations. The goal is to have one single membership for all in 2027.

“These examples are a selection of the working groups currently established. The Steering Group on Integration has met consistently since its inception and will continue to meet as work towards One Association for Gaelic games continues.

“Each meeting of the SGI has a detailed agenda where a wide and varied range of topics are up for discussion and consideration, including the consideration of proposals from aforementioned working groups. The vision of the SGI has been clear since its formation; ‘There will be One Association for all Gaelic Games’.

“Integration is a complex mission but the sentiment remains the same. There is a clear commitment to deliver an Integrated Association for all by 2027.

“The integration of three, separate associations, who have spent decades building their own identity, structures, and ways of doing things, is an extraordinary undertaking. The process of integration is one that must be given time and respect to ensure that the outcome of the process is One Association, built with scaffolding that will stand the test of time and is ultimately what is best for each member of the Gaelic games community.

“From the beginning of the integration process the Steering Group has engaged with and listened intently to the fullest range of the many stakeholders in Gaelic games and culture, from players through to government, and every cohort between. We have welcomed their views and they have greatly assisted in our comprehensive planning which is moving us steadily towards an integrated organisation bearing the name GAA and benefitting from the collaborative approach and experience of the three organisations. I urge all stakeholders to do everything they can to make an integrated mindset a reality in their sphere of influence. It is our future and making it happen is the responsibility of all.”

Mary McAleese, May 2025