Group led by Mary McAleese gives update on 2027 Gaelic games integration target
The Steering Group on Integration (SGI) says it remains committed to its target of bringing the three Gaelic games governing bodies together by 2027.
The SGI, which is led by former President of Ireland Mary McAleese, has issued an update on where the process is at, with a Central Fixtures Oversight Committee established last month while a separate working group, chaired by former Munster chairman Ger Ryan, is charged with producing a new structure for county boards and provincial councils in the new integrated model.
In a statement, the establishment of the fixtures oversight committee was described as a 'significant step towards full integration of Camogie, GAA and LGFA and a fixtures programme for all'.
'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,' the statement read.
'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 other working group led by Ryan, who has been touted as a candidate in next February's GAA presidential election, is 'committed to delivering on the task at hand before the end of 2025'.
With many clubs already operating off a 'one club model', it is hoped to update this template by the end of the year also.
The stated aim of the SGI has been to have all three organisations successfully integrated by 2027, which some feel is an overly ambitious target given the complexities involved, but it has doubled down on this target, saying that 'the goal is to have one single membership for all' by then and that 'there is a clear commitment to deliver an Integrated Association for all by 2027'.
Commenting on the process at this stage in its development, President McAleese urged 'all stakeholders to do everything they can to make an integrated mindset a reality'.
She said: '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."
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