GPA calls for fair funding as Tom Parsons meets with Minister Charlie McConalogue

This week, Tom Parsons, CEO of the Gaelic Players Association (GPA), met with Minister for Sport, Charlie McConalogue, at Government Buildings to discuss the value of inter-county players and their unique role in Irish society.

At the core of the discussion was a fundamental question: how can the commitment of these players be better recognised and supported, both financially and in terms of their wider societal contribution?

The conversation was framed by a recent economic impact report on inter-county games, which highlights their staggering contribution.

According to the report, inter-county players generate nearly €600 million in economic impact, sustain over 4,000 jobs, and contribute over €62 million to the Exchequer each year.

Despite this, players themselves are left at a financial disadvantage, losing an estimated €4,600 annually — a figure that has worsened by €1,500 since 2018.

Parsons stated, "While everyone benefits, players are out of pocket to the tune of €4,600 yearly, which is €1,500 worse off compared to 2018."

Parsons believes that for all their impact, inter-county players continue to face financial and logistical challenges. The demands placed upon them are immense — rigorous training schedules, extensive travel, nutrition costs, and the physical toll of playing at this level. All of this is undertaken for the honour of representing their county. Alarmingly, when adjusted for inflation, government funding for these players has decreased by 24pc since the Celtic Tiger era of 2008.

"The funding received in the Celtic Tiger era of 2008 was 24% higher compared to today's government grant," Parsons remarked.

Meanwhile, significant state investment is seen in other sports, such as the €10 million in taxpayer funding for an NFL game, which is projected to return €19 million to the Exchequer — far less than the inter-county game but still substantial.

"If an NFL game can receive €10 million in state funding, why are we not investing at the same level in our own players who generate far greater economic and social value?" Parsons questioned.

"This isn’t just about financial incentives — it’s about the value we place on our athletes. If we want to keep our best talent at home, we need to create an environment where being an inter-county player is sustainable and properly recognised."

Minister McConalogue engaged with these concerns and posed insightful questions regarding equality and fair treatment for both male and female players.

His recognition of the profound impact of inter-county players, particularly in Donegal, was encouraging.

As Parsons emphasised, "Our inter-county players are the heartbeat of their communities, embodying the values of dedication, resilience, and pride that define our national games."