GAA must be held accountable for integration “setback,” says Ennis

The delayed amalgamation of the GAA, LGFA and Camogie Association is a “serious setback for equality” in Gaelic games, according to Social Democrats TD Daniel Ennis.

The Dublin Central TD was speaking after former President Mary McAleese announced she was stepping down as chairperson of the GAA’s integration committee, a move which has drawn criticism.

As a result of McAleese’s resignation, the integration of the GAA, LGFA and the Camogie Association will be pushed in 2027.

“Dr Mary McAleese has given four years’ service as chairperson of the Integration Committee, and I would like to thank her for all her hard work, dedication and commitment to the process,” Ennis said.

“Given that integration of the three associations was supposed to be achieved by 2027, it is bitterly disappointing to see the GAA suddenly move the goalposts and kick the can down the road,” he added.

Ennis said that the GAA are attempting to “defend the delay.”

“The GAA claims it wants ‘a greater focus on equity rather than equality’. But real integration must be more than just token gestures and talking shops – it requires real commitments and the discipline to deliver on them,” he said.

“Delaying a process which has been ongoing since 2022 undermines the efforts of the steering group and risks putting equality on the long finger.

“The Joint Oireachtas Committee on Sport must now engage with all stakeholders, including the LGFA and Camogie Association, to discuss this serious development and find a way forward. The GAA must set out in public exactly what has led to its change of heart when the ambition of achieving integration by next year felt within reach,” Ennis said.