The Central Council of the GAA has given the go-ahead for Ireland’s women’s Euro 2025 qualifier against France to be held at SuperValu Páirc Uí Chaoimh on July 16th. At the Central Council’s Saturday meeting, the ongoing Gaza conflict was also a point of discussion, with members generally hospitable to the idea that the GAA should encourage the international community to advocate for a truce.
Noting that the GAA’s Aims and Ethos declare its apolitical stance, any actions by Croke Park concerning Gaza would be proposed based on humanitarian justifications – this could potentially involve a financial contribution towards relief organisations operating in the affected area.
Jarlath Burns recently held a meeting with the Gaels Against Genocide group, and after the Central Council’s assembly at Croke Park, the GAA will be voicing a call for a ceasefire. Delegates at the assembly were informed of the Central Competitions Control Committee’s (CCCC) task to develop a variety of fixture schedules that might cater to moving the All-Ireland finals to either August or September. All such possibilities will be presented at the Central Council’s meeting next month for further discussion.
The choice to allow Eileen Gleeson’s Ireland to compete against France at Cork GAA’s home ground will result in the Euro qualifier being held on the edge of the Lee in July, providing the site with considerable revenue. There were, however, concerns voiced during the meeting regarding the increasing number of soccer and rugby matches being hosted at GAA venues.