Simon Harris says he holds out hope that GAA integration will ‘get over the line’ in 2027
Irish leader Simon Harris expressed hope for the integration of the GAA, Ladies Gaelic Football Association (LGFA), and Camogie Association by 2027, despite former president Mary McAleese's recent resignation from the integration steering group due to frustration. Harris called for deeper reflection on the obstacles and confirmed the government would not withhold funding from the GAA. The Minister for Sport also commented on the need for guarantees for the women's associations.
Why it matters
The integration of these major Irish sporting bodies would significantly impact Gaelic games, potentially unifying governance, resources, and promoting equality across men's and women's sports in Ireland.
Fine Gael leader Simon Harris said he hoped that the integration of the GAA, the Ladies Gaelic Football Association (LGFA) and the Camogie Association will happen “in the course of 2027”.
Efforts to merge the two women’s organisations with the GAA under one umbrella group were dealt a setback on Tuesday when former president Mary McAleese stepped down as chair of the Steering Group on Integration (SGI) , which was overseeing the process.
McAleese said she did not believe integration of the associations would happen under current GAA leadership.
Speaking at the Fine Gael think-in in Gorey on Thursday, Harris said: “Knowing Mary McAleese, I know she will want some good to come from this and I hope that good is that finally this gets over the line in the course of 2027.”
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