Gaelic Games integration is moving apace with the Chair of the process former President Mary McAleese and representatives of the GAA, LGFA and Camogie Association meeting Government Ministers Catherine Martin and Thomas Byrne yesterday to brief them on progress.

“It was good to meet with the Gaelic Games Associations today, and to receive an update from Professor McAleese and the three associations on progress in relation to the integration process,” said Minister for Tourism, Culture, Arts, Gaeltacht, Sport and Media after the meeting.

“The recent survey of 30,000 members showed that 90% of them felt that integration would be positive for Gaelic Games. That is a view shared by Government. It is clear there is work still to be done, and I outlined our willingness to assist the integration process where possible in the weeks and months ahead.”

“Gaelic Games plays a unique role at the heart of Irish society, with a foothold in every community across the country,” added Minister of State for Sport and Physical Education Thomas Byrne.

“I believe that the integration of the Gaelic Games Associations will be a positive step forward, not just for female participation, but for all parties as a whole.”

“It was heartening to hear of the commitment towards integration from all parties concerned today, and to see the expert guidance being given by former President McAleese to the process.”

“I welcome the meeting with Minister Martin and Minister Byrne today and the comprehensive discussion on the progress made to date on the integration process,” said Professor McAleese.

“We are deeply encouraged by the commitment from Government to the integration project and the future of Gaelic sports, their continued promotion of women in sport and their support for the vision of the integration committee, a vision that is shared by the vast membership across all three associations. We look forward to having one organisation based on equality.”

Integration remains firmly the aim of the leadership of each of the sports, and at club level though there remain some misgivings at County and Provincial levels that have yet to be ironed out.

A roadmap on the way towards integration is expected to be published in the early part of 2024.