'We will achieve it' - Gaelic games bodies vow to complete integration

The leadership of Gaelic games bodies have vowed to complete the integration process, reaffirming their commitment despite the departure of Dr Mary McAleese as chairperson of the steering group. Dr McAleese stepped down last month following the GAA's inability to meet the 2027 deadline for amalgamation with the Camogie Association and Ladies Gaelic Football Association.

While her exit has raised doubts about the merger, the bodies declared their determination to achieve integration during a meeting with the Joint-Oireachtas committee. GAA president Jarlath Burns emphasized that Dr McAleese's work has brought them significantly closer to the goal, and warned against equating her departure with the end of integration.

Burns also addressed criticisms of the GAA's commitment to integration, asserting that the three presidents and director generals present were there to affirm their dedication to the cause. It is expected that a clearer timeline for integration will be presented at next year's GAA Congress, with the process taking a number of years to fully implement.