The APG met on 11th February 2025 at Stormont with representation from GAA on Social and Economic Return on Investment of Gaelic Games, Growing inequalities in Disability Sport from DSNI and need for legislative change to allow additional good causes Lotteries to operate in NI from the People’s Postcode Lottery.
Jarlath Burns, President of the GAA, opened the session by emphasizing the deep-rooted connection between Gaelic Games and community well-being. He highlighted the concept of ‘Love of Place’ and the crucial role of volunteers in enhancing community life. Burns expressed concern over the sustainability of volunteer contributions and underscored the importance of continued investment in sport. The GAA has commissioned research to evaluate the effectiveness of such investments.
Professor Simon Shibli from Sheffield Hallam University presented the findings of a comprehensive report conducted in collaboration with Ulster University and Manchester Metropolitan University. The report focused on Northern Ireland and revealed several key insights:
- The total economic expenditure on Gaelic Games in Northern Ireland amounts to £28 million.
- This expenditure represents 8.7% of the entire sports industry in the region.
- The overall Gross Value Added (GVA) from Gaelic Games is £43 million.
- Gaelic Games have created 1,100 full-time equivalent (FTE) jobs in Northern Ireland.
- Beyond economic contributions, the total social value of Gaelic Games in Northern Ireland is estimated at £515 million.
Kevin O’Neill, CEO of Disability Sport NI (DSNI), highlighted a significant decline in disability sports participation, dropping from 34% in 2019-2020 to 28% currently. Key issues include the legacy of COVID-19, reduced sports opportunities from local authorities, shifting focus of sports organizations, and the cost of living crisis. Aubrey Bingham, Community Sports Manager, emphasized the need for expanded local sports programmes, improved accessibility, active inclusion by governing bodies, equal access to physical education, and better promotion and support. DSNI has outlined 13 priority actions to address these challenges.
Malcolm Fleming introduced the People’s Postcode Lottery, which raises £19 million monthly for charities in Great Britain. He discussed the potential expansion to Northern Ireland, which could raise an estimated £7 million annually for good causes, pending legislative changes. The lottery emphasizes low-risk gambling and social responsibility, with a subscription model and support for players with issues like dementia.
he NI Sports Forum remains committed to supporting and promoting the invaluable contributions of sport, addressing the challenges in the sector, and exploring new opportunities for community support.
Following the meeting, Justin McNulty MLA and Nicola Brogan MLA joined the Mandate for the APG.
Photo Top: David Honeyford MLA (Chair APG), Jarlath Burns (GAA President), Prof. Simon Shilbli (Manchester Met. University), Brian McAvoy (CEO Ulster GAA)
Pictured: Marc Scott (Chair NISF), Daving Honeyford MLA (Chair APG) , Aubrey Bingham (DSNI), Kevin O’Neill (CEO, DSNI)