Inter-county GAA players are out-of-pocket an average of €4,602 a year as a result of playing for their county.

A new independent report conducted by Indecon International Economic and Strategic Consultants (Indecon) and commissioned by the GPA, has found that inter-county players are €1,499 worse off than in 2018, largely due to out-of-pocket expenses for training and competing at the elite level.

At the same time, the report – called Assessment of Economic and Social Impacts of Inter-County Gaelic Football, Camogie and Hurling Players in Ireland – claims that players are generating a total economic impact of €591 million annually. The report is based on figures from the 2023 season.

Key findings from the report noted:

€359 million in direct spending (+51%)

4,212 jobs that were directly supported (+53%)

€353 million in gross value added (+53%)

€62 million in exchequer impact (+49%)

According to the report, individual players take on an average net expense loss of €4,602 annually, which when adjusted for inflation means that players are €1,499 worse off than in 2018. The impact of inter-county participation has also led to many players speaking out on the impact playing has had on their educational and career progression.

Due to this, current GPA members are projected to suffer a cumulative lifetime earnings reduction of €31 million. Players are also losing out on €3,500 annually in potential overtime earnings.

Speaking on the report's publication, GPA Board of Directors Chairman Brian MacCraith said: "This important report highlights the significant contribution that inter-county players make to Irish society and the economy — both as role models inspiring future generations and as elite athletes generating substantial revenue for the State. We are urging the Government to ensure that its support reflects this impact.

"While we welcome the increase in grant funding from €3 million to €5.6 million to address gender disparities, male player grants have remained stagnant at €1,470 per player since 2018, representing a 24% reduction since they were introduced in 2008, and now represent just a 1% return on Total Economic Impact.

"It is clear the Government must do more to recognise and support the vital role played by Gaelic players across all codes — Football, Hurling and Camogie. We look forward to engaging with ministers to push for greater State recognition of their contribution."

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