Irish sport has answered a call from Government to do what it can to assist Ukrainian refugees arriving into Ireland over the coming weeks and months.

Multiple fundraising initiatives, welcome programmes, clothing collections and houses have been made happen at club and NGB level since the war started and now the three major sports are to bring a coordinated push to what is happening on the ground.

Minister Jack Chambers and representatives of local authorities met with the GAA, IRFU and FAI and each is now implementing specific actions to assist.

The GAA in partnership with the Irish Red Cross is calling on its members to register on the
charity’s website any accommodation suitable for housing Ukrainian refugees arriving in Ireland.

While the Irish Red Cross is still welcoming the registration of available rooms in a family home, such offers require that all persons aged 16+ already living in the house be vetted thereby delaying the speed at which such accommodation can be made available, and unfortunately, existing sporting body Garda vetting is not applicable.

“While the shelter of a home is essential, and I encourage all members to register any available accommodation they have, the welcome we extend is just as important in helping to buffer our Ukrainian visitors from the trauma of war and displacement,” said President Larry McCarthy.

“The GAA community’s response to the war in Ukraine has been heartening. If you are aware of
any refugees having been housed in your community let them know that they are welcome in your
GAA club.”

The GAA’s Ard Chomhairle and Coiste Bainistíochta also agreed last weekend to make a contribution of €100,000 to the work of the Irish Red Cross in supporting Ukrainian refugees.

The IRFU met with all Provincial CEOs, who have collectively agreed to ask that any rugby club facilities that may be available for the relief effort, are made available.

It will host a short information webinar this afternoon to provide further information on Government’s request and to encourage clubs to stand Shoulder to Shoulder with Ukraine.

“The IRFU, GAA and FAI had a call with Department and Local Authority officials yesterday where the urgency of what is happening was brought home and our immediate response was ‘how can we help?’” said CEO Kevin Potts.

“Working together we hope Rugby can help in some small way, those fleeing Ukraine to Ireland. Not every club will have the facilities and indeed not every facility that is offered will be deemed suitable, but I am hopeful that clubs with facilities will contact their local authorities, as per the Government’s request.”

On today’s webinar, clubs will be provided with information on how clubs can help with the immediate requirement for facilities for refugees arriving in Ireland, and what supports are available to those clubs who can help. All clubs have been asked to have a representative attend the call.

The FAI has also asked all clubs and affiliates to support the Government’s call on Irish sport to assist with the provision of short-term emergency accommodation spaces to those coming to Ireland from Ukraine.

FAI President Gerry McAnaney has written to all member clubs and leagues with details of the Government’s request for the use of sports halls and clubhouses that can ideally accommodate 50 or more people for the next two months.

In his note to all stakeholders, McAnaney said “The situation is quite drastic for the next eight weeks or so until other state bodies and various institutions can release accommodation spaces. As an Association we acknowledge that the ask from Government, as attached, will not be feasible for many of our clubs but there are so many other ways that Irish football can help.”

“Members may consider acting as host families for our visitors from Ukraine in this period, members may have access to residential or non-residential units that can help with this short-term crisis or they may know somebody who can help with accommodation. Every little bit will make a difference in this situation.”

“We are due to play Ukraine in the UEFA Nations League in June so let’s continue to show solidarity with our friends from Ukraine between now and then.”