GAA 'Build A Sense Of Community', Says Burton

The GAA’s second National Inclusion Forum was addressed by the Minister for Social Protection this week. The Forum showcases how far the GAA and the family of Gaelic games have come in terms of being inclusive. It also marks and celebrates African Liberation Day, the UN’s International Year of Youth and the EU Year of Volunteering.

Speaking at the Forum Minister Joan Burton said: “The GAA has been at the heart of communities throughout Ireland over the past 127 years. The Association was never solely about sport or recreation. It is about building a sense of community and identity, at both local and national levels. We have in the GAA a great national institution focused on pride in the club, community, county and country.”

The GAA’s National Inclusion and Integration Strategy outlines practical steps to “attract and retain members from all sections of the community” and ensures that “they welcome people from all nationalities, ethnicities, religions, ages and abilities into their sports”. The GAA have made significant inroads in terms of inclusion in recent times.

Some of the main projects in 2010 included Disabilities Games Formats which included Wheelchair Hurling and Blind Rounders, while ‘Have-a-Go/International Days gave members of the new Irish Community a chance to try out Gaelic games’ activities. This year sees the expansion of the Respect Initiative, an Intercultural Gaelic Football Tournament and Have-a- Go/International Days.

Minister Burton also spoke of the goodwill, generosity of spirit and commitment shown by those who work and volunteer with the GAA. She said: “The Government wants to ensure that all people are encouraged and given opportunities to participate in sport and to enjoy all the benefits that sport can bring. To help achieve this, almost €46.9 million was allocated to the Irish Sports Council this year. And of course, GAA County Boards and clubs throughout Ireland have benefited by almost €212million under the Sports Capital Programme helping to transform the quality of facilities available, including dressing rooms, pitches, lights and equipment.”

(BMcN/GK)