The Camogie Association, the GAA, and the LGFA have disclosed their proposed date for full integration between the three organizations as 2027. The Steering Group for Integration, led by former Uachtarán na hÉireann Mary McAleese, is tasked with formulating proposals to be presented to the membership of the three bodies for approval.
Over the past 18 months, extensive efforts have been made to gather the views of members and officials across the three associations. Detailed discussions have taken place, leading to the earmarking of 2027 as the proposed completion date for the integration process.
The Steering Group for Integration has been actively working on proposals, and updates on their progress will be presented at the upcoming Annual Congresses of the three bodies. The comprehensive listening process, which included Ireland’s largest-ever survey with 30,000 respondents, has provided valuable feedback.
Cross-organizational working groups were established in November 2023, representing both staff and volunteers of the organizations. Tasked with addressing key areas highlighted during the listening process, these groups focused on Facilities, Finance, Fixtures, Human Resources, Membership, and Player Welfare. Proposals from these working groups, combined with feedback from the consultative process involving county boards, provincial councils, player representatives, staff, and members, form the basis for the pathway to integration.
Specific recommendations include alignment of membership, development of models for facility management, and opportunities to review fixtures throughout 2024. Members of the three organizations can anticipate progress in various areas in the three-year window ahead, including a Joint Fixtures Review Workgroup, a detailed audit of existing facilities, implementation of a Facilities Equal Access policy, the establishment of a National Children’s Office, updated One Club Guidance and Support with significant adoption of this model, a unified membership system, a consolidated Injury Benefit Fund, and a streamlined staffing structure.