Integration could 'suffer if it is rushed in', says Galway GAA chairman
Galway GAA chairman Paul Bellew believes the integration process may not be complete by 2028, never mind next year.An objective of 2027 has been placed on the merger of the GAA, Ladies Gaelic Football Association and The Camogie Association, although the GAA’s management committee have already agreed that the target is unrealistic.
At a meeting last month, integration committee chairperson Mary McAleese rejected their view and it remains to be seen what happens as the body embarks on a roadshow next month where they will be outlining their vision.At GAA Central Council on Saturday, GAA director general Tom Ryan provided information on the ideas the steering committee have around the merger but the deadline remains up in the air.In a report by RTÉ Radio 1’s News At One, Bellew ruled out 2027 and admitted agreeing on a plan for the amalgamation by February 2028 would be difficult.“In my opinion, it won’t (be achieved in 2027) given where we are at the moment. The appetite for integration across all codes as far as I can see is a positive.“’27 was ambitious in the first place and there’s a real sense among county chairpersons nationwide, in particular, that they don’t know what they will be voting for. This is something that could suffer if it is rushed in and unless it’s properly planned and very clear what the milestones are.“And I would think that Congress 2028 will be doing very well to have a concrete proposal on the ground. That’s not what everyone wants to hear but that’s the reality of where it’s at.” A number of GAA county chairpersons such as Kerry’s Patrick O’Sullivan and PJ Kelly of Laois have raised questions about what the cost of integration.In his opening remarks as new Leinster chairman last week, Martin Byrne said the process of integration had to be given careful consideration.“There is no doubt that this will require time, consultation and a realistic understanding of what can be achieved on the ground. While views differ on pace and approach, it important that we proceed thoughtfully and in a manner that genuinely supports our games and all our members.” The Irish Examiner understands some counties have yet to form the integration bodies they were requested by the three associations at national level.Cork GAA confirmed last week that their county’s sub-committee is in place and it will be chaired independently by Ted Owens. Along with Owens, there will be two representatives from Cork GAA, LGFA and camogie.Cork GAA added that “efforts are being made to migrate the current One Cork integration subcommittee into this structure.”
