Help Us Understand How Demographic Change Is Affecting Your Club and Community

Cork is changing, and our GAA clubs are changing with it.

We want to hear your views on how the GAA can continue to grow and develop in rapidly expanding areas, while also supporting clubs and communities experiencing population decline.

Changing Communities, Changing Challenges

GAA clubs throughout Cork work tirelessly — and with great success — to promote all aspects of Gaelic Games, including hurling, football, camogie, ladies football, handball and scór.

While many clubs are thriving, others are facing significant challenges as communities change.

Growing and Declining Populations

In some rural and urban areas, declining populations can make it difficult for clubs to field teams.

In rapidly growing communities, clubs can face a different set of pressures, including:

• Providing every child with meaningful and equal playing opportunities
• Recruiting and retaining volunteers to meet growing demand
• Meeting increased demand for pitches and facilities
• Providing adequate indoor and outdoor facilities

Planning for Cork’s Future

The challenges presented by demographic change have been highlighted nationally, including in the GAA National Demographic Committee’s report:

No One Shouted Stop – Until Now: The GAA’s Response to Ireland’s Demographic Shift

These issues are already visible across Cork, where major housing and infrastructure developments are underway, with many more planned for the coming years.

Cork GAA and Munster GAA are examining how developing areas can best cater for this growth and ensure that every boy and girl has the opportunity to play and enjoy Gaelic Games.

We Want to Hear From You

To help guide this work, we want to hear directly from clubs, volunteers and communities across Cork.

Your experience is important. You understand the opportunities and challenges facing your local area better than anyone.