Parliamentary Committee visits Croke Park for GAA demographic briefing

Parliamentary Committee Visits Croke Park for GAA Demographic Briefing

On Wednesday, July 15th, the Joint Committee on Arts, Media, Communications, Culture and Sport will travel to Croke Park for a significant briefing session. The visit focuses on the recently published report titled Nobody Shouted Stop - Until Now, which was commissioned by GAA president Jarlath Burns and launched in December 2025.

The report investigates profound demographic shifts across Ireland and their impact on Gaelic games clubs in both rural and urban settings. Inspired by John Healy’s seminal 1968 work on rural decline, the study highlights the urgent need for integrated policy making that spans sport, housing, planning, and infrastructure to accommodate changing population trends.

Committee Cathaoirleach Deputy Alan Kelly emphasised the importance of this engagement. Speaking ahead of the visit, he stated: "As the Oireachtas committee with responsibility for sport, we have a key role in examining the policy challenges arising from demographic changes." The session will feature a presentation from GAA representatives detailing the report's findings and recommendations regarding future facility provision.

In addition to the briefing, Committee members will take a guided tour of Croke Park. Deputy Kelly noted that the visit offers a unique opportunity to understand how sporting participation can keep pace with Ireland’s evolving communities through constructive policy discussions.