The GPA favours a condensed seven-month inter-county calendar.

The players' body's annual survey has found that the vast majority of its members - 92% - want the entire inter-county season to be condensed into just seven months, or less, with a split-season model also strongly favoured.

Almost two thirds, 63%, of players said they favoured a seven-month window, with another 29% stating that they would like the inter-county season to be even shorter.

"What is clear from the GPA Annual Player Survey is that players face significant demands due to their inter-county commitments and everyone within Gaelic games has a duty to ensure their welfare is protected," GPA CEO Tom Parsons said.

"If our players are telling us that a seven-month inter-county season is the maximum they can sustainably commit to, we need to listen or face the consequences of player drain and a threat to the amateur status of our games.

"This is not about money. A seven-month season would reduce the demands on players and also lower costs.

"Our mission is clear, to protect and empower the elite amateur player in an increasingly professional environment. That means ensuring proper standards, fair reimbursement of out-of-pocket costs, genuine rest periods, and opportunities to grow both on and off the field."

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