The GAA says it needs time to discuss the planned introduction of a gender quota for sporting organisations.

Sporting bodies will face cuts to their State funding unless at least 30 per cent of their board positions are filled by women under new proposals announced by Junior Sports Minister Patrick O'Donovan this morning. The gender quota won't require a change in law and is expected to be introduced next year.

While it wasn't consulted in advance of the annoucement, the GAA has stressed its support for increased participation by women in administrative roles.

"As a family-based organisation, the GAA welcomes efforts to increase the participation of women and girls across the sporting spectrum. A growing number of ladies have taken on officer roles in recent years, a trend we hope to see continue," a spokesperson said.

"However, democracy lies at the heart of the process that facilitates the appointment of the vast majority of our officials and in light of this morning's announcement a wider discussion is now required to assess its potential impact.

"The GAA was not involved in drawing up the gender quota plan and will now take the opportunity to study it in detail with the relevant internal forums before commenting further."

Tweet

Most Read Stories