Sports Council investment to support inter-county GAA players
By Peter McNamara
It has been officially announced this morning that a €900,000 investment to support GAA inter-county players has been given the green light by Minister of State for Tourism and Sport, Mr. Michael Ring.
The GAA Inter-County Players Support Scheme will see the Irish Sports Council invest the aforementioned sum through the GAA, who will work with the GPA to appropriately disburse the money to individuals, teams and programmes alike.
This will represent a timely boost for inter-county operators that are presently engaging in championship training and preparations.
Is it enough, though? No doubt there will be some that suggest much more should be made available but it is a substantial figure regardless.
Conversely, adult players outside of the inter-county sphere may look on in envy at this additional breakthrough given the present national fixation with the club and inter-county player divide.
However, speaking at the announcement, Minister Ring explained: “I am delighted to announce today’s investment. The GAA Inter-County Players Support Schemes recognise the contribution of inter-county GAA players in showcasing the skill, excellence and commitment of our national games at home and abroad”.
The Scheme will operate by refunding players expenses in accordance with the provisions set out in the GAA/GPA Agreement.
Kieran Mulvey, Chairman of the Irish Sport Council said: “The GAA Inter-County Players Support Schemes recognise that inter-county GAA players prepare and train to the highest international standards for team sports and incur significant financial costs in pursuit of their sporting goals.
”I would like to acknowledge the Minister, GAA and GPA in supporting the continuation of the scheme as well as recognise the contribution that players make to the economic and social fabric of the nation.”
Significantly, GPA Chief Executive Dessie Farrell outlined how important this financial shot-in-the-arm will be to those playing at inter-county level.
He added: “The Government Support Schemes are of major importance to our county hurlers and footballers as they recognise the unique contribution the players make as the leading exponents of our indigenous national games.
"I would like once again to pay tribute to Minister Ring, his Department officials and the Irish Sports Council for their continuing support for county players and their commitment to the Support Schemes.”
