Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family 2009 – 2015 Title to go here Sub Title to go here Reamhrá An Uachtarán...... 4 Stiúrthóir agus Rúnaí...... 5
Executive Summary...... 8
Our Planning Contexts Ulster the Province...... 15 The Ulster of 2015 and Beyond...... 15 The GAA in Ulster...... 15 The GAA Contexts...... 17 The Sports Contexts...... 17 Beyond Sport...... 20 Recent GAA Performance in Ulster...... 20 Resourcing Comhairle Uladh...... 20 Sustaining the Momentum...... 22 Enhancing the Infrastructure 2000-08...... 23 Creating the Fabric: How We Did Our Planning Work...... 24
Taking Ulster GAA to 2015 Mission and Values...... 27 Comhairle Uladh’s Strategic Themes...... 27
l Keeping Ulster GAA Fit for Purpose: Governance...... 30
l Increasing and Improving the Games...... 36
l Increasing and Improving the GAA Plant: Facilities and Infrastructure...... 48
l Enhancing the “Gaelic” in GAA: Culture and Heritage...... 52
l The GAA’s End Purpose: Community Development, Inclusion and Cohesion...... 56
Managing for Delivery...... 62
Appendix-Ulster Hurling Strategy...... 71
2 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 3 Teachtaireacht ón Uachtarán Uladh Teachtaireacht ón Stiúrthóir Cúige agus Rúnaí Message from the Ulster President Message from the Provincial Director and Secretary At this time of writing our country faces a difficult economic As the GAA celebrates its 125th Anniversary and Good planning has been at the heart of the various situation which will limit in some ways the aspirations of Comhairle Uladh moves confidently into its 11th successes of the GAA in Ulster and “Teaghlaigh agus decade, I am privileged to introduce the third strategic our Association at all levels. But I would highlight that Pobail: An Fabraic de CLG”, our third provincial plan, plan of Comhairle Uladh. Following on from Beir Bua over the last 125 years Ireland has faced many difficult will direct the operations of Comhairle Uladh right up to and Beir Bua Nua, “Teaghlaigh agus Pobail: An Fabraic times particularly in Ulster and our Association has 2015. In developing the plan we consulted widely with de CLG” (“Family and Community: The Fabric of the always managed to find strength in adversity, this current Association members and officials, at Club; County; and GAA”) will direct the work of Ulster GAA up to 2015. test of our resolve will be no different. Provincial levels.
We were very deliberate about the title we picked for This plan sets out an ambitious vision for the future of The views of our grass-roots volunteers were central to the our document. We believe a strong and healthy GAA is the GAA in Ulster and with continued hard work and co- process and we were fortunate to have had the opportunity The Ulster GAA part of the fabric of a strong and healthy society. And operation we will achieve a stronger GAA for everyone. to harness the views of over 400 Club level volunteers in a like a good fabric it’s about many, many strands coming feedback forum that was part of the Council’s second Club and now provides together. In the same way we’re enmeshed with families This plans intrinsic links with the recently published GAA Community Development conference held in November 2008. and communities. They are what give us our vigour and National Strategic Action Plan and Vision means that the our strength. Ulster Council will The Ulster GAA now provides over a third of the GAA’s overall over a third of significantly advance membership, in the form of nine County committees; 580 Comhairle Uladh is in the happy position of putting this Central GAA policies Clubs; and over 250,000 volunteers. the GAA’s overall plan in place over a year ahead of the intended end date of and objectives whilst Beir Bua Nua. That’s simply because virtually everything meeting our own During this decade in particular we have rightly acquired membership, that was in Beir Bua Nua has been achieved well ahead Provincial needs. significant investment from government in order to support our of schedule. And that in turn is simply because the entire development programmes. This has resulted in a considerably GAA family in Ulster has worked unflinchingly to keep I look forward to you increased capacity within the GAA in Ulster. As a result of our in the form of the GAA at the forefront of community and sporting life travelling that road two previous plans, Beir Bua and Beir Bua Nua, Comhairle here. In Ulster we believe in the importance of working with Ulster GAA. Uladh is stronger and more effective. But we must continue to nine County closely with our partner bodies in the GAA family namely develop and improve and that’s what this plan is about. the Ulster Ladies Gaelic Football Council and Ulster Beir bua. Camogie Council; this strategy places the integration That development and improvement is shaped and driven by committees; and co-operation agenda at the core of all our work. I Tomas Ó Dalaigh our volunteers: they and they alone set the policy and direct am grateful to my counterparts Gerry Doherty (Ulster Uachtarán the operations of the Ulster Council. I am proud that we now 580 Clubs; and Ladies Gaelic President) and Catherine O’Hara (Ulster have in place a dedicated staff team who work extremely hard Camogie Chairperson) for their continued support and to strengthen the overall GAA in our province by supporting over 250,000 commitment to the overall development of Gaelic Games our volunteers. and Culture in our Province. The GAA has always been bold in its vision. Proceeding with volunteers. This plan sets out our way ahead up to 2015. It’s well- the development of Croke Park in dire economic times in the based, built on a strong consultation and bringing on late 1980s was a clear statement of what our Association can board many issues raised by Counties in their own achieve when we work cohesively and with proper ambition. planning processes over the past couple of years. The over the last 125 years We now face a similar economic situation and this should journey ahead will keep us all well occupied. not constrain our vision for future. In Ulster we see the Ireland has faced economic downturn as an opportunity to get back to basics The GAA volunteers across Ulster have shaped this plan and strengthen the Association at grassroots level: this plan and will be the people who will implement it. It is their vision many difficult times reflects that aspiration. and their plan for the future of the GAA in our Province. I would like to thank the Council Officers and members for particularly in Ulster I wish to extend my sincere thanks to the Ulster Developments continued support and commitment to the Ulster Council Committee which acted as the steering group for this project. and the betterment of the GAA in our province. and our Association has Thanks also to Mark Conway for his ongoing voluntary contribution to Comhairle Uladh in his role as Honorary I want also to acknowledge the input to the plan from always managed to find Strategic Advisor and for his support in the development of Danny Murphy Ulster Provincial Director and Ryan Feeney this strategy. My thanks also to Ryan Feeney and the rest of Community Development Manager supported by the strength in adversity the Council staff who supported the Developments Committee other Council staff who have made a huge contribution in its work. in supporting our volunteers on the many recent positive developments across the GAA in Ulster. I would also make Now that we have an agreed and challenging route map as to special mention of Mark Conway the Ulster Council’s the way ahead, it’s time for the hard work to begin. Honorary Strategic Advisor for his many hours of voluntary input into the overall development of this plan. Dónall Ó Murchú Stiúrthóir Cúige agus Rúnaí
4 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 5 Title to go here Sub Title to go here
The Organisational Fabric: Comhairle Uladh/Ulster GAA …
• Comprises delegates elected by the Province’s nine Counties and works seamlessly across two political jurisdictions and 29 local authorities. Due to be reduced to 14 in 2011 as a result of the recent Review of Public Administration.
• Oversees the development and delivery of gaelic games and associated activities across 570 GAA Clubs and some 250,000 active members.
• Directly oversees year-on-year some 12 major inter-County GAA competitions.
• Manages GAA events which attract annual live attendances of 250,000.
• Facilitates the development of the GAA by the direct delivery of coaching and development (in the broadest sense) programmes; by improving Club capacity; by providing grant aid; and by helping deliver government strategies . and programmes.
• Supervises the core activities of its nine County Committees in the areas of games; fixtures; finance; marketing; public relations; and physical facilities.
• Deals directly with government on relevant issues.
• Is energised by a huge and ongoing volunteer input at all levels and in all settings.
• Reports annually to Ulster Convention and to National Congress on its affairs.
6 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 7 Executive Summary Executive Summary
“Teaghlaigh agus Pobail: An Fabraic de CLG” is the Keeping Ulster GAA Fit for Purpose: third strategic plan to be rolled out by Ulster GAA. All the targets set in the previous two plans have Governance essentially been achieved, most of them well ahead of schedule. This strategy aims to build on those Putting in place and resourcing the systems; structures; achievements, but recognises that it is being launched processes; skills; and supports needed to keep Ulster at a time of changed economic circumstances for GAA at the forefront of all its areas of activity and Ulster and Ireland. Ulster GAA will rise to ensure it delivers best practice and meets all those challenges. To foster and legislative requirements. With a population of 1.95m, Ulster is home to a third of Ireland’s population and also hosts Ireland’s second city. grow the GAA Increasing and Improving the Games It is a Province of great variety; significant growth; and complex history and heritage. During the last third of the across Ulster, Seeing gaelic games as Ulster GAA’s main driving 20th Century it was of course the epicentre of conflict force and ensuring, through good, integrated coaching over the national question. The GAA and Irish identity and games structures that participation in the games and culture generally are strong in Ulster and that strengthening is as widespread as possible; leads to success when strength is increasingly obvious in a number of appropriate; and is always enjoyable. tangible ways. its position as the Province’s Increasing and Improving the GAA Plant: Facilities and Infrastructure
leading amateur Helping plan and resource the facilities needed to play gaelic games; to prepare for playing the games; and to sporting; cultural; watch others playing the games as well as those needed community; and to accommodate all other aspects of the GAA’s work. volunteer-driven Enhancing the “Gaelic” in GAA: Culture and Heritage
movement Making sure that heritage and culture remain central to the GAA offer, thereby sustaining its uniqueness and difference and above all its relevance in an increasingly global society.
The GAA’s End Purpose: Community Development, Inclusion and Cohesion Comhairle Uladh, the governing body of Ulster GAA, has Five core values will shape and influence how Ulster GAA Reflecting the fact that gaelic games are means to the gone through a comprehensive modernisation process does its work. Those values are: since the Millennium. That process has delivered clearly end of strengthening community and personal well-being measurable results right across the areas of games rather than just ends in themselves development; infrastructure; on-the-field performance; l Community “Teaghlaigh agus Pobail: An Fabraic de CLG” puts culture/heritage; community development and well- l Volunteerism being; and governance. Ulster GAA is stronger than forward just over 100 separate Actions to progress it ever was but still believes good-enough-isn’t-good- l Identity these five themes. The outcome sought for each Action enough: “Teaghlaigh agus Pobail: An Fabraic de CLG” and its timing are specified as is responsibility for its l Inclusion therefore sets out a framework for continued progress implementation. Connections into the GAA’s Strategic across those key areas of GAA work. l Excellence Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 are also spelled out.
Over the next five years everything Ulster GAA does will The detail of Ulster GAA’s work will in turn be taken Finally, overall responsibility for the plan is properly be aimed at helping achieve its mission: forward under five themes: vested in Ulster GAA’s Committee structures.
8 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 9 Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan Milestones ExecutiveUlster GAA Strategic Summary Vision and Action Plan Milestones Area 2009 2012 2015 Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan Milestones Coaching and Bi-Annual fixtures GAA Community Coaches in Full implementation of Area 2009 2012 2015 Games seminars in place place and operating at each the Ulster GAA of the 11 Local Government Hurling Strategy Governance Ulster GAA Financial Ulster GAA achieving DENI Sport in School Roll-out of at least Sports Consortia Management System full-audit Programme sustained 30 Ulster Coaching Full and meaningful links in place Programme events Recreational Intercity GAA established with Risk Management System Enhancement in twinning Tournament established Scottish Shinty Association Review of Ulster GAA in place arrangements with Social and Recreational Committee System both Britain and Canada Games in place Referees Academy Each Club/School to have Completed Full Assurance Level re-established two ‘Award 2’ coaches achieved by Sport NI Current Ulster GAA High Performance and Staff Executive Team structures sustained Talent Identification Strong and meaningful links Each Club/School to have at Established County Budgetary Control through government Manager in place established with Disability least one ‘Award 3’ Coach Template in place funding and support Sport NI HR and Remuneration Sports Science Officer Communication and Support Committee Established New Staff Appraisal System in place. Special Project co-ordinators Structures in place for the in place in place for education sector Communications Team Ladies Gaelic Football • Special Needs and Established Ulster GAA Duty of Care and Programme Officer Disability Team Manager support Child Protection Strategy in place. • Co-ordination of the programme in place County Treasurers Forum and Policies in Place Active Communities Established Camogie Programme Programme ‘GAA Tech’ recognised and New marketing strategy in Officer in place. • Handball and Rounders in place Budgeting and Business place and re-brand of Ulster Development Planning Council GAA to Ulster GAA • Recreational Participation Over 40s and Over 50s Processes in Place complete teams in place at High performance support Club and County level Management Information Communications Plan in in place System in place place 20% Increase in GAA All Coaches achieving participation at all Levels County Secretaries Network level ‘Award 1’ in place Support from SINI in place County Games Development Network in place Facilities and Ulster GAA compliant with Flood lights installed Spectator comfort improved Infrastructure all Health and Safety and in Clones in all main County grounds Investors in Volunteers licensing legislation Charter Mark achieved Club physical development Suitable event control and Membership and operation resources and support media and press facilities in Ulster Confederation of GAA of the Club Planning and network in place place at all County grounds Councils established and Physical Development All Secondary County operating Committee reviewed Grounds upgraded with floodlights installed Free to air broadcasting Continued investment in club physical development secured for all relevant GAA Ulster Strategic requirement through the Parks and matches on platforms for a 40,000 capacity Safety Committee available across Ulster stadium achieved
10 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 11 ExecutiveUlster GAA Strategic Summary Vision and Action Plan Milestones ExecutiveUlster GAA Strategic Summary Vision and Action Plan Milestones Area 2009 2012 2015 Area 2009 2012 2015
Facilities and Regional Centre of Culture and Annual Ulster GAA Heritage Infrastructure Participation and Excellence Heritage Event in place contd. in place in each County contd. “This is the GAA” resource Three Regional Handball completed and in circulation Centres in place Summer Camp delivered Ulster GAA High through the medium of Irish Performance Centre and in each County Headquarters in place Community Community Development Ulster GAA Volunteer Development plans in place for Urban Participation Centres Development, and Inclusion Unit Operating. Awards programme in place all Ulster’s major urban areas in place in both Derry City Inclusion and Club and Volunteer advice and Belfast Cohesion service and support network County Maith programme Roll out of the second phase operating in place of County Strategic Planning Improved provision for gaelic games by local Government Club Maith Accreditation and GAA Community Education All Clubs have an Active support Took-kit and Programme in place Health/Alcohol, Substance & Culture and Series of events delivered to All Ulster Clubs having Ulster GAA Online Archive in website operating Abuse Policy in place Heritage mark the 125th Anniversary Crests and new GAA operation Strategic Plans in place for All Clubs have a Health/ASAP of the GAA branding procedures in place Scoil Maith Accreditation • Cumman na Bunscol Uladh Officer in Place Public signage in place for all and Support tool-kit • Ulster Vocational Schools Increased promotion and Formal links established with County Grounds, Centres operating • Ulster Colleges All Clubs screening players participation in Ulster GAA Ulster Scots community of Excellence, secondary • Comhairle Ardoideachais using the GAA Cardiac Irish Language Course County Grounds and other Annual Community Uladh screening questionnaires Scór reviewed and rebranded Significant GAA facilities Development Conference • Ulster Camogie Full and active participation with 80% of Ulster Clubs in place • Rounders 50% of Ulster Clubs in the Ulster Sports participating Ulster GAA Archive open and • Handball achieving a level of Museum Project operating Support in place for Ulster • Derry City Urban Project Club Maith accreditation Irish used as key component Ladies Gaelic Football • Belfast Urban Project in all Ulster GAA resources Celtic (Gaelic) Art Council Strategy At least five officers in each and publications component in place at Review and appraisal club trained using the Ulster All County Grounds and GAA Strategic Plans in place in all process in place for County GAA Volunteer support GAA heritage competitions Participation Centres nine Counties Strategic Plans programme in place in the education Nine Cross Community sector Nine County Health and Annual Ulster Public Affairs initiatives in place Wellbeing nights organised brochure circulated to all Formal link with Foras na relevant parties Annual Ulster GAA Open Gaeilge established and joint Third Level health day organised programmes in place programme “Drink, Drugs GAA central to all Local and Sausage Rolls” Government Sport and Significant GAA presence Annual Irish Language rolled out Health Strategies in the Controlled Courses for Council education sector members and staff in place Nine County Volunteer Three regional diversity Training workshops training workshops in place Increased awareness and Ulster GAA actively organised for Club officers understanding of the GAA supporting the delivery of and its activities by the Seachtain na Gaelige Unionist Communities
12 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 13 Title to go here Our Planning Contexts Sub Title to go here Ulster the Province l Less robust social structures with a weakening of community infrastructures and a lowering of the The nine Counties of Ulster are home to 1.95m people, levels of social capital one-third of the population of the island of Ireland. Ulster is second only to Leinster (2.29m) and is larger l Political progress leading to more attention being than both Munster (1.17m) and Connacht (0.51m) paid to inclusion and equality issues but a combined in population terms. It is home to Ireland’s simultaneous political legacy which poses many second city, Belfast, an urban area of 0.58m people, as challenges for everyone. well as its fourth city, Derry, where nearly 0.1m people now live. Belfast for example is now larger in population At the same time large tracts of Ulster rely on “old terms than the entire Province of Connacht. economy” industries and are more acutely subject to economic downturns. For many Ulster communities Ireland’s Population the practice of having to go elsewhere for work remains strong.
Munster 20% The Ulster of 2015 and Beyond “Shaping our Future” is the regional development Connacht strategy for the north. It is built around an urban hub; 9% transport corridor; and regional gateway concept which Ulster sees Belfast; Derry; Craigavon; and the other main urban 33% centres increasing in significance. Many stakeholders however are suspicious as to its impact on the rural communities of the six Counties. Leinster The National Spatial Strategy meanwhile places the three 38% Ulster Counties in its Border Region where development will be driven by the urban centres of Letterkenny/Derry; Sligo; and Dundalk with Cavan and Monaghan playing lesser roles. It stresses the need for strengthening of small towns and villages; rural diversification; and environmental protection. Ulster has grown by more than 0.2m or 11% over the past quarter-century and is projected to increase by another If implemented, both strategies will drive forward the 5% to some 2.1m by 2017. Within that growth however centralisation of facilities; resources; and investment is an important internal dynamic where the under 16 across Ulster. This will have major implications for proportion of the population will fall from 24% to 20%; people’s links with and understanding of place … the working age proportion will grow from 61% to 62%; something which underpins the entire GAA ethos; and those of pensionable age will increase from 15% its structures; and its work. Within this, the growing to 18%. significance of Dublin and Belfast within the island have Among the changes and shifts Ulster is currently consequences for other communities right across Ulster. experiencing, and will continue to experience, and which are particularly relevant to the work of Comhairle Uladh are: The GAA in Ulster
l Growing urbanisation, with four-people-in-every-ten Just as in the rest of Ireland, the GAA is Ulster’s largest now living in settlements of more than 20,000 people sporting and cultural organisation. It has a membership of some 250,000 people, approximately 120,000 of l Increased economic prosperity leading to greater whom are active participants in the games. Gaelic wealth, both community and personal … but games comprise football; hurling; camogie; handball; and simultaneous concentrated incidences of deprivation rounders, for men and women, boys and girls. In addition and disadvantage in many urban and rural areas to these the GAA focuses on Irish cultural activities, l Growing concerns about personal health and well- supporting the language as well as Irish song; music; art; being, many related to sedentary lifestyles drama and dance.
14 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 15 The Association in the Province is structured as follows: Our Planning Contexts
Level Number Role/Remit Although the Ladies Gaelic Football; Rounders and l Communications Camogie Associations are independent governing l Funding Opportunities Comhairle 1 • Strategic Leadership and governance of the GAA in Ulster bodies in terms of their own sports, the gaelic games Uladh including participation at national GAA level integration agenda has been progressed further in Ulster l Financial Excellence than elsewhere. Comhairle Uladh is keen to support the • Strategic coaching and games development l Inclusion and Integration • Strategic GAA facilities and infrastructure development of the full family of gaelic games. l Club, Culture and Community • Strategic funding The GAA Contexts • Provincial competitions, including Scór l Planning
• Advice and support to all GAA levels and units The GAA’s newly-launched Strategic Vision and Action l Officer Support • Community development, diversity and community outreach Plan 2009 – 2015 sets out a number of key focus areas • Overseas twinning for the Association. Its mission for the GAA is clearly put: The Ulster GAA Strategic Vision fits within the tenets • Liaison with government GAA Vision and Action Plan and will deliver much of it at • Ulster-wide promotion of the GAA Ulster level. It will also continue to take forward a number • Links with sister gaelic games organisations of recommendations which emerged from the GAA’s • Partnership delivery of the DENI Sport in Schools Physical 2001 strategic review, “Enhancing Community Identity”. In all of that work Comhairle Uladh will hold true to the Literacy Programme traditional purpose and values of the GAA in that it:
Counties 9 • Strategic leadership and governance of the GAA within Counties, including inputs at Provincial and national GAA levels The GAA is a l Is community-based and volunteer-driven • County coaching and games development l Provides real community leadership • County GAA facilities and infrastructure l Works in the areas and communities of greatest need • County competitions, including Scór community • County teams l Is open and welcoming to all and free at the point of delivery • County-wide promotion of the GAA based volunteer l Re-invests all its income in its own facilities and in the Clubs 580 • Strategic leadership and governance of the GAA within organisation development of its games communities, including inputs at County level l Promotes a community-based, ground-up rather than • Local coaching and games development promoting Gaelic a corporate, top-down culture • Local GAA facilities and infrastructure • Participation in County competitions • Support for County; Provincial and national initiatives games, culture The Sports Contexts • Community-wide promotion of the GAA and lifelong Comhairle Uladh also works within the sports development contexts set by government, north and Schools 1217 Primary Schools • Strategic leadership and governance of the GAA within schools south. These are largely as laid out by Sport NI and the • Schools-based coaching and games development participation Irish Sports Council. 286 Secondary • Schools’ GAA facilities and infrastructure Schools • Participation in competitions The draft NI Strategy for Sport and Physical Recreation • Support for County; Provincial and national initiatives 2007 – 2017 is structured around a series of targets set • Sector-wide promotion of the GAA under the three headings of Participation; Performance; • Partnership delivery of the DENI Sport in Schools Physical and Places. Comhairle Uladh has prioritised these areas for some years and will continue to do so, thus helping Literacy Programme implement the NI Strategy.
Colleges 2 Universities, • Strategic leadership and governance of the GAA within Colleges The Plan is structured under 11 headings: The Irish Sports Council’s strategy 2005 - 2008, 2 University Colleges, • College-based coaching and games development “Building Sport for Life” sets out plans to: establish l Volunteers 6 Further Education • Colleges’ GAA facilities and infrastructure the Institute of Sport; complete the national roll out Colleges, • Participation in College competitions l Urbanisation of Local Sports Partnerships; progress anti-doping; 1 Institute of • Support for County; Provincial and national initiatives increase participation in sport; and highlight research l Games Schedule Technology, • Sector-wide promotion of the GAA and communications. Again Comhairle Uladh’s work will 3 Colleges of Further l Games Development complement these. Education.
16 Comhairle Uladh CLG Enhancing Clubs, Communities & Families for Life Ulster GAA Strategic Vision & Action Plan 2009-2015 17 Increases in Ulster GAA Ulster GAA Turnover facilities from 2004 - 2009
No of projects n8m 10 n7m
8 n6m
6 n5m
4 n4m
n3m 2
n2m 0 Main County County Centre Covered Stands Regional Centres Grounds of Excellence in Main County Identified n1m Floodlit Developed Grounds since 2004 3 x County Centre 4 x Covered Stands in of Excellence were Main County Grounds completed previous were completed 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 to 2004 previous to 2004
(Improvements of the physical infrastructure and facilities were enabled by the Ulster GAA turnover)
18 Comhairle Uladh CLG Enhancing Clubs, Communities & Families for Life Ulster GAA Strategic Vision & Action Plan 2009-2015 19 Our Planning Contexts Our Planning Contexts
Beyond Sport l Work with other Provincial Councils in both Ireland and Britain in developing shared values and interests
The GAA is concerned about more than sport. In terms l Significant progress in terms of integrating the full of its cultural and heritage work it will contribute to the family of gaelic games On the Field On the Field aims of the strategic plans of the relevant government departments and the Arts Councils, north and south, by l Unprecedented success on the field of play promoting the value of arts and culture-related activity and Ulster’s successes on the field of play by encouraging participation in and enjoyment of them. Much of this has been achieved on foot of innovative Hurling partnership working with a number of other bodies. since 2000 includes: In its community development work Ulster GAA has already These include: • 1 x All Ireland Division 2 title Christy helped take forward a number of government initiatives. Football Ring Cup l Sport NI It sees this as central to its core business and will • 1 x All Ireland Division 3 title continue to support and complement initiatives such as: l Irish Sports Council • 4 x All-Ireland Senior Football titles (Nicky Rackard Cup)
l The Department of Culture, Arts and Leisure • 3 x All-Ireland Under 21 Football titles • 1 x O’Keefe Cup l Good relations and community cohesion programmes • 5 x All-Ireland Minor Football titles l Department of Arts, Sport and Tourism l Arts and cultural development programmes • 6 x National Football League titles Ladies Gaelic Football l Departments of Social Development l National Action Plan for Social Inclusion; New • 6 x All-Ireland Club titles Targeting Social Need and other anti-poverty l Community, Rural and Gaeltacht Affairs • 4 x Interprovincial Football titles • 2 x All-Ireland Junior Championship titles initiatives (Railway Cup) l Department of Education • 2 x All-Ireland Senior Club • 6 x All-Ireland Vocational titles (County) l Urban regeneration and Neighbourhood Renewal Championship titles l Department of Foreign Affairs • 8 x All-Ireland Vocational titles (Schools) l Rural development programmes • 1 x All-Ireland Intermediate Club • 3 x All-Ireland Colleges Football titles Championship l Gaeltacht area initiatives (Hogan Cup) • 1 x All-Ireland Junior Club • 3 x All-Ireland Universities Football titles Championship title (Sigerson Cup) Recent GAA Performance in Ulster • 1 x All-Ireland Minor Football title • 1 x All-Ireland Interprovincial title For the past decade Comhairle Uladh and its affiliated Handball • 4 x All-Ireland Colleges Senior units have taken a strategic approach to the planning and Football titles delivery of their work. Among the outputs and outcomes • 1 x All-Ireland Universities Football title achieved as a result have been: Male International (O’Connor Cup) • 2 x Senior World Single l Robust governance arrangements now in place at • 1 x Senior World Double all levels • 2 x U15 World Single Camogie l Major stadium developments progressed in Armagh; • 1 x U15 World Double Cavan; Derry; Enniskillen; Omagh and Newry Resourcing Comhairle Uladh • 1 x U17 World USHA Single • 2 x Junior All-Ireland titles l Floodlighting projects implemented in Armagh; • 1 x U19 World Single Comhairle Uladh’s main resource always was, and always Belfast; Ballybofey; Cavan; Derry; Enniskillen; Omagh • 1 x Senior Club All-Ireland title will be the committed input of its volunteers. But it also • 1 x U19 World Double and Newry • 1 x Junior Club All-Ireland title uses money to help make things happen. Nearly half • 1 x Senior Interprovincial l Pan-Ulster Club hurling leagues put in place (45%) of the Council’s income comes from gate receipts, National • 1 x Junior Interprovincial emphasising yet again the importance of its games. • 5 x Senior Single l An unrivalled suite of coaching and games Nearly a quarter (23%) comes from central GAA funds • 1 x Senior Colleges All- Ireland title development programmes developed and rolled out • 5 x Senior Double (which Ulster GAA people of course contribute to) whilst • 2 x All-Ireland University Secondary l County GAA strategic plans either in place or the remaining third (32%) comes from newer, non- Championship titles (Purcell Cup) Female National underway in Antrim; Armagh; Cavan; Derry; Donegal; traditional sources such as government and sponsorship. Down; Fermanagh; Monaghan and Tyrone and urban One pound/euro in five of the Council’s income now • 7 Senior Single strategies in place for Derry and Belfast comes from government, proof of the new and positive • 7 Senior Double Off the field Ulster has simultaneously partnerships which have been developed. l Significant progress in integrating the full family of won 12 All-Ireland Scór titles. gaelic games, for men and women All of Comhairle Uladh’s expenditure meanwhile goes on l Major advances in taking forward diversity and in developing the GAA across the Province. More than a making gaelic games more inclusive for people from third (37%) is spent on the Council’s pioneering coaching non-GAA backgrounds; people with disabilities; and and games development support whilst 29% is targeted the “new Irish” at improving GAA facilities at County and Club levels.
20 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 21 Our Planning Contexts Our Planning Contexts
Comhairle Uladh: Sources of Funds
Income 2008
11% 23%
21%
45%
Income from Government Commercial Income Central GAA Funding Gate Receipts
Comhairle Uladh: Expenditure
Expenditure 2008
Valuing and Supporting GAA Volunteers Sustaining the Momentum 17% Supported by government funding, the Ulster Council 17% Comhairle Uladh is convinced it is vital that the now directly employs 56 core staff and works closely with the 9 County Secretaries and County Games 5% momentum it has created since the turn of the millennium is sustained. Most of the contexts which Development Managers. All staff employed by the GAA underpinned “Beir Bua Nua” persist but there have been have a core directive that requires them to support some significant changes. These include: 250,000 GAA volunteers in Ulster. This includes offering club development support, coaching, games development 24% l Devolution restored to the north and major support, administrative support and general advice and restructuring of local government planned, including guidance. The Ulster Council staff are governed inter-governmental aspects 37% by volunteers who set the objectives and policy of l Increased acceptance of the need for and potential of the Council. community-based health and wellness initiatives
l A growing focus on community-based approaches to Enhancing the Infrastructure 2000-08 urban and rural regeneration Since the millennium, Ulster GAA, with valued support Operational Costs Grants l A significantly-increased migrant population from Sport NI and the Irish Sports Council and central across Ulster Coaching & Games Championship GAA, has made huge progress in developing the Club & County Infrastructure l A new and challenging debate about the role and Province’s main inter-County stadia. That progress can be place of culture, heritage and tradition across Ulster summarised as follows overleaf:
22 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 23 Enhancing the Infrastructure 2000-08
Stadium Progress 2000-08 Capacity Work Underway/Planned
Casement Park, • Floodlights installed 30,000 • Control room Antrim • Facilities for people with disabilities
Athletic • Terracing installed 20,000 • New Covered stand with Grounds, • 2,000 seats installed additional seats Armagh • Pitch re-laid • Floodlights installed
Bréifne Park, • Terracing completed 30,000 • Turnstiles Cavan • 5,000 seats added • Control room • Floodlights installed • Admin block
Celtic Park, • Floodlights installed 20,000 • 4,500 seat covered stand Derry • Terrace extension • Media/Press/Control Facilities
MacCumhaill • Floodlights installed 20,000 • Modernise Stand Park, Donegal • Remedial work in priority areas • Terrace safety • Player; referee and medical facilities • Toilets
Páirc Esler, • 4,000 seat covered stand built 21,000 • Player; referee and medical facilities Down • Pitch re-laid • Control/Media Facilities • Floodlights installed • Spectator accommodation
Brewster Park, • Floodlights installed 21,000 • Completion of all existing works. Fermanagh • Terracing completed • Improvements to Control and • Pitch re-laid Media Facilities • New Entrances and Turnstiles
St Tiernach’s • Pitch improvements 35,000 • Floodlighting Park, • Stand refurbishment Monaghan • Player; referee and medical facilities • Control room • Pitch upgrade
Healy Park, • 4,600-seat covered stand built 21,000 • Pitch upgrade Tyrone • Control building completed • Changing/player facilities added • Floodlights installed
Creating the Fabric: l Provincial GAA Officers planning workshops in September 2008 How We Did Our Planning Work l Club and Community Development Conference Forum attended by over 400 Club volunteers in “Teaghlaigh agus Pobail: An Fabraic de CLG” plan was November 2008 developed over late 2008 and early 2009. It is based on a l Meeting with the County Chairpersons widespread consultation and a number of formal and informal l Meetings with representatives from Ulster Ladies planning events. The process included: Gaelic Football; Camogie; Handball & Rounders Councils l Comhairle Uladh Development Committee driving the process l Meetings with Central GAA officials
24 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 25 Taking Ulster GAA to 2015
Mission and Values Volunteerism: The GAA offers an involvement that people are in turn free to take or leave: the Association The mission of Comhairle Uladh is straightforward: is based on choice. It also believes in cherishing its volunteers and supporting them to reach their full potential in terms of how they contribute to the GAA and their communities. The GAA’s current strength is largely down to an unwavering practice of contributing to this generation whilst re-investing for the next one: Ulster GAA will continue that practice. We share our work and our benefits in the proven belief that shared benefits endure. Where it needs to buy in expert help or support it will do so in open and transparent ways which conform to To foster and best purchasing and recruitment practice.
grow the GAA Identity: The GAA gives life to a number of core elements of Irish identity. It gives people a sense of connection with their place; their community; their heritage, history and across Ulster, culture. In doing that it helps to form a greater sense of personal identity; pride in place and community and self- strengthening worth. Retaining and fostering an outward-looking sense of Irishness in a world that is becoming more and more its position as uni-dimensional is an important part of the GAA’s work. Inclusion: the GAA is open to everyone who subscribes the Province’s to what it does and how it does it. Ulster GAA recognises however that there are historic deficits to be addressed – among them people from non-traditional leading amateur GAA backgrounds, women and people with disabilities. Inclusion also means being interested in everyone who’s sporting, cultural; interested in the GAA, irrespective of their levels of ability, playing or otherwise.
community; and Excellence: Ulster GAA believes its work is fundamentally important to the well-being of communities and people volunteer-driven across Ulster and beyond. Because it’s important it must be developed and delivered to the best possible standards. movement Good enough isn’t good enough. Ulster GAA will operate to the highest possible standards and make sure it, and everyone involved with it, can be proud of what it does and how it does it.
Comhairle Uladh’s Strategic Themes
The planning and consultation work which underpins this strategy identified five themes which were felt to As part of the GAA, Comhairle Uladh is unequivocally incorporate all the areas of work which Comhairle Uladh value-driven. The values which guide its plans and its needs to address over the coming years. Those themes are: day-to-day work are: l Keeping Ulster GAA Fit for Purpose: Governance Community: The GAA in Ulster is unashamedly community- l Increasing and Improving the Games based. It uses gaelic games to represent and to energise communities, giving them a focus and contributing to their l Increasing and Improving the GAA Plant: Facilities well-being and sustainability. As communities change and and Infrastructure develop, Ulster GAA will reflect and respond to those l Enhancing the “Gaelic” in GAA: Culture and Heritage changes. It will do that from a position which is anti- sectarian; anti-racist; and which encourages the active l The GAA’s End Purpose: Community Development, and enjoyable involvement of everyone. Inclusion and Cohesion
26 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 27 Taking Ulster GAA to 2015 Taking Ulster GAA to 2015
The high level targets of the Strategic themes are dealt with in turn below. Timed Actions are presented under each Theme and the Outcome (or result) sought for each Action is summarised. Every Action is allocated to at least one of Activity Targets for 2015 the Council’s Committees and to a member of the Council’s senior staff team working to that Committee. This ensures the proper governance balance across everything the council does Facilities • Nine fit-for-purpose main County grounds in place • Nine fit-for-purpose secondary County grounds in place • Nine fit-for-purpose regional centres of excellence in place Ulster GAA 2009-2015 High Level Targets • Two fit-for-purpose urban centres of participation in place • Three rural participation clusters in place Activity Targets for 2015 • All Ulster GAA Clubs with access to at least two full-size pitches • All post-2008 public sports facilities fit-for-purpose for gaelic games Men’s football • Balanced programmes of games for all players • Year-on-year appearance of at least three Ulster Counties in the last eight of the Health and • All Clubs with a Health and Well-being policy in place All-Ireland SFC Well-being • All Clubs with an officer or committee in place to roll out the Health and Well-being agenda Hurling • Balanced programmes of games for all players • All Clubs with first aid/CPR training in place for members • All nine counties participating in the Ulster Senior; Minor; and U21 Championships • All players over the age of 14 screened using the GAA medical welfare • Complete implementation of the Ulster GAA Hurling Strategy committee questionnaire • All Clubs participating in the ASAP programme Ladies football • Balanced programmes of games for all players • Year-on-year appearance of at least one Ulster Club team in an All-Ireland Club Final Inclusion and • At least eight cross-community initiatives in place • Year-on-year appearance of at least one Ulster County in an All-Ireland Senior Final outreach • Community Development and Outreach Committee in place • Complete implementation of Ulster Ladies Gaelic Football Council strategy • Regional Diversity Training Nights organised on annual basis • “Game of Three Halves” summer camps established in each large urban area Camogie • Balanced programmes of games for all players • Year-on-year appearance of an Ulster County in the All-Ireland Junior Final Scór • 80% of Ulster Clubs taking part in Scór • Within the lifetime of this strategy an Ulster County appearing in the All-Ireland Intermediate Final Heritage • All GAA facilities branded as GAA • Within the lifetime of this strategy an Ulster County appearing in the All-Ireland • Public gaelic art piece in 18 County grounds Senior Final • Ulster GAA archive established
Handball • 20% of Ulster GAA Clubs delivering Handball Partnerships • Meaningful and strong ties developed with Ulster GAA twinning partners, Canada • Handball facilities in all County and regional GAA centres and twinning and Britain • Development and implementation of Ulster Handball Council strategy Governance • All GAA and other relevant stakeholders’ governance and accountability Rounders • 20% of Ulster GAA Clubs delivering Rounders standards met • Development and implementation of Ulster Rounders Council strategy • Strategic plans in place for all nine Counties; gaelic games partner governing bodies; GAA educational sectors; and major urban areas Coaching • Ulster GAA Referees Academy in place • 50% of Clubs accredited under Club Maith • Development of Manager Training Awards • Ulster GAA Confederation of Councils Established • High Performance provision in place • GAA Tech established in and place • Each Club/school having at least two Award 1 coaches, two Award 2 coaches and one Award 3 coach during the lifetime of this strategy
Participation • All Ulster GAA activity at U12 and below taking place within the Go Games model • At least five volunteers in every Ulster GAA Club trained in some aspect of governance • At least 50% of Clubs achieving a level of Club Maith • Establishment of an Over 40s Ulster Championship • Roll out of recreational games • A GAA coaching or development presence in each local authority
28 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 29 Theme 1: Keeping Ulster GAA Fit for Taking Ulster GAA to 2015
Purpose: Governance l Maintaining an undiluted focus on the GAA’s core l Working with Counties to ensure best governance objectives of using gaelic games and associated practice at that level activities to sustain and develop communities and l Progressing the integration of the full family of individuals, all within a volunteer ethos gaelic games l Ensuring Ulster GAA continues to have the necessary l Continuing to develop and deliver programmes and systems and procedures in place to manage its business supports that are helpful and meaningful to Clubs to best effect and volunteers at all levels l Being equipped to act as an effective and best l Securing appropriate and accessible media coverage practice employer or manager of around 100 staff of what are indisputably Ulster’s leading games and l Continuing to meet all necessary child protection standards cultural activities
Theme 1: Keeping Ulster GAA Fit for Purpose: Governance
Committee/ Senior Action Timing Outcome Sought Officer Staff Responsibility Lead
Maintain Ulster GAA’s Ongoing • All existing and imminent Coiste Bainistí Provincial core business reporting requirements, internal Director arrangements. and external, successfully met. • Full Audit achieved by the end Finance of 2009. Manager • Risk Management system in place by 2010. • Achieve full assurance level from Sport NI by 2012. • Continue to contribute to National GAA governance and operational issues via the Provincial Director’s role on the National Executive Committee.
Develop a monitoring and 2009 • Clear monitoring process for Coiste Forbartha Community appraisal system to assist the implementation of County Development County Committees in the Strategy. and Public implementation of Affairs County Strategies. Manager
Appoint a HR and 2009 • Fit for purpose HR and Coiste Bainistí Provincial Remuneration Committee to Remuneration Committee Director provide an oversight of staff dealing with staff issues in Uachtarán issues and support County place during 2009 Finance Committees in establishing • Updated staff operations Manager their own HR committees. manual in place by 2009. Ulster GAA’s modernisation programme has been significantly advanced during this decade. But as the Establish a Staff Executive 2009 • Clear management Coiste Bainistí Provincial breadth and depth of the GAA’s work continues to grow Team to assist the Provincial accountability through the Director and as legislative requirements become more and more Director in the overall Provincial Director and stringent, GAA governance equally grows in importance. day-to-day management Executive Team. The planning consultations and analyses carried out of Ulster GAA. identified the following as major issues to be addressed::
30 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 31 Taking Ulster GAA to 2015 Taking Ulster GAA to 2015
Committee/ Senior Committee/ Senior Action Timing Outcome Sought Officer Staff Action Timing Outcome Sought Officer Staff Responsibility Lead Responsibility Lead
Install a new Ulster GAA 2009 • Working system in place by Grúpa Oibre Finance Review the current 2012 • Annual Continuing Personal Coiste Bainistí Provincial financial management 2010 which reflects national Aireadas Manager approach to the induction Development programmes in place. Director system. and Ulster GAA needs and and continuing personal • Council members and staff standards, as well as best Cisteoir development of Council equipped to do their jobs. Finance accounting practice. members and staff. • Officer “five year rule” turnover Manager accommodated. Further develop the MIS 2009 • MIS in place by end 2009. Grúpa Oibre Eolas Finance system to support the • Clear measurement of Ulster Teicnealaíochta, Manager Agree a strategy for 2012 • Full Ulster GAA, County and Club Coiste Cód Provincial work of Ulster GAA. GAA’s work. Margoíochta Agus Ulster GAA to meet compliance with Independent Eitice agus Dea- Director Ciadreamh Poiblí imminent new child Safe-Guarding Authority Chleachtadh protection requirements. and other legislative-based Establish a bi-monthly 2009 • Forum in place for discussion Coiste Bainistí, Provincial requirements by 2015. County Treasurers Forum. and feedback on all financial Uachtarán, Director, issues relating to Province Cisteoir Finance Sustain from Ulster GAA; 2012 • A financially sustainable Coiste Bainistí Staff and Counties. Manager other GAA and external Ulster GAA. Executive sources, the funding Uachtarán Team Establish a staff 2009 • Rapid and clear response to all Grúpa Oibre Eolas Provincial needed to support the Communications Team to media enquires. Teicnealaíochta Director roll-out of this plan. Cisteoir work with the PRO and • Increased external knowledge Provincial Director to of all Ulster GAA activities Margoíochta Agus Community Re-brand the Ulster 2012 • Public awareness an Grúpa Oibre Eolas Operations ensure the message of and events. Ciadreamh Poiblí Development & Council GAA to recognition of Ulster GAA Teicnealaíochta, Manager Ulster GAA is communicated Public Affairs “Ulster GAA” within the overall GAA brand. Margoíochta agus to the media. OCP Manager Ciadreamh Poiblí, OCP Develop an advisory 2012 • Council’s financial performance Grúpa Oibre Finance template for budgetary monitoring role delivered. Aireadas, Manager Agree and implement an 2012 • Year-on-year increases in Grúpa Oibre Eolas Operations control at County level. Cisteoir Ulster GAA marketing attendances at Ulster GAA Teicnealaíochta Manager strategy which: fixtures and events. Maintain a Comhairle 2012 • Full accountability through Uachtarán Provincial • Identifies Ulster GAA’s • Increased revenues from Margoíochta agus Uladh Committee system ongoing monitoring of Council Director various markets sponsorship, events; and other Ciadreamh Poiblí which reflects and business by Committees; • Raises awareness and commercial activities. facilitates the delivery of officers; and members. understanding of • Investigate the feasibility of OCP this plan and the Council’s the GAA appointing a Marketing and other objectives. • Promotes the Council’s Commercial Officer to oversee competitions the implementation of the Introduce a business 2012 • “Teaghlaigh agus Pobail: An Coiste Bainistí Finance • Increases Ulster GAA’s Marketing Strategy. planning process where Fabraic de CLG” implemented in Manager non-games revenue each team leader submits a structured, accountable way. an annual business plan Cisteoir Develop an annual 2012 • Monthly Newsletter. Grúpa Oibre Eolas Community and budget that is collated communications plan • Monthly Communication Teicnealaíochta Development into one overall annual which includes to Clubs. and Public implementation plan. the following: • A visible partnership with the Margoíochta agus Affairs
• Monthly online Ulster GAA Writers Association. Ciadreamh Poiblí Manager Review the current annual 2012 • All staff appraised twice An Choiste Provincial newsletter staff appraisal system in annually. Achmhainní Director, OCP line with the GAA Daonna agus Finance appraisal framework. Tuarastail Manager
32 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 33 Taking Ulster GAA to 2015 Taking Ulster GAA to 2015
Committee/ Senior Committee/ Senior Action Timing Outcome Sought Officer Staff Action Timing Outcome Sought Officer Staff Responsibility Lead Responsibility Lead
• Direct monthly communication 2012 Establish and increase co-operation 2012 • Clear partnership Coiste Iomlánú Community with Club Secretaries and with the Ulster GAA integration understanding agreed Development other relevant officers partners by establishing the Ulster protocols in place between Leas-Uachtarán and Public • Increased “non-games” GAA Confederation of Councils the governing bodies. Affairs coverage to further develop strong links • Increased women’s Manager • Annual Public Affairs Booklet between Ulster GAA and: membership of Ulster GAA • Increased links with the media • Ulster Ladies Gaelic Football Council committees/groups. • A meaningful link with the • Ulster Camogie Council • One overarching governing Ulster GAA Writers Association. • Ulster Handball Council body for Gaelic Games • Ulster Rounders Council in Ulster. Support GAA administrators 2012 • County Secretaries Network Coiste Bainistí Provincial The confederation will be led by at County and Club levels in place in 2009. Director Ulster GAA who will act as the through: • A fit-for-purpose GAA umbrella governing body for all • A monthly Ulster GAA across Ulster. Gaelic Sports in the province of County Secretaries Network • Free, two-way flow of Ulster and take responsibility for for full-time County information from County, agreed Confederation issues. Secretaries and Provincial Provincial and central Staff Managers chaired by GAA levels. Start the process of developing a 2015 • Continued strategic focus to Coiste Community the Provincial Director second phase of five year the development of the GAA Forbartha Dev. and Public • Providing practical; strategies for County Committees. at county level in Ulster. Affairs Manager meaningful; and best practice training for Continue to develop twinning 2015 • Continued roll out of “An Coiste Bainistí Provincial volunteer officers at arrangements with GAA in Britain Bhratach in Airde Director all levels and Canada. sa Bhreatain”. • Facilitating the effective succession of key officers at Sustain the DENI Sport in School 2015 • 32 primary schools coaches Coiste Director of all levels Programme and commission an continuing to deliver Forbartha agus Coaching • Using modern independent evaluation of the fundamentals & physical literacy Oiluna and Games communications methods to impact of the programme. programmes in primary schools. reduce isolation and bolster • Independent evaluation of the the Ulster GAA family. effectiveness of the Sport and Schools Programme. Support the Games 2012 • Monthly meetings of all Coiste Forbartha Director of Development Managers games development staff agus Oiluna Coaching Put in place and lobby intensively 2015 • Ongoing; accessible and Coiste Bainistí Provincial and Games Development in Ulster. and Games for arrangements which secure: available broadcasting Director Administrators by establishing • “free-to-air” broadcasting of inter- coverage of gaelic games, Uachtarán an Ulster GAA Games County gaelic games Championship reflecting their undisputed Development Network matches on platforms which are status as Ulster’s OCP for County and Provincial freely available across Ulster leading sports. coaching staff. • Continued broadcasting coverage of gaelic games during and after Achieve the Investing in 2012 • Achievement of the Volunteer Coiste Forbartha Community the switch-over to digital platforms Volunteers Charter Mark Charter Mark by 2012. Development • Proper; fair and equitable as part of the Department • Comhairle Uladh delivering, and Public coverage of gaelic games by all of Social Development and seen to be delivering, to Affairs broadcasters, particularly those volunteering programme. best volunteer practice. Manager with a public service remit.
34 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 35 Taking Ulster GAA to 2015 Taking Ulster GAA to 2015
l Maintaining the focus on (whilst reshaping inputs interlinked. The high performance County and Provincial as appropriate) Ulster GAA football and hurling Teams depend on grassroots Club and schools activity to competitions; coaching; high performance; the produce the high performing players. women’s codes; handball; rounders; football; and hurling development The many challenges facing Ulster GAA include l Giving added attention to urban areas; recreational embedding quality coaches working with development gaelic games; discipline and respect for officials; and squads who are open and willing to share ideas across specialist support County boundaries and who are given opportunities
l Working in partnership with others such as County to expand their knowledge. The inclusion and fast Committees; Cumann na mBunscol; Colleges and tracking of ex-players into coaching and management Vocational Schools; Universities and Colleges and is an untapped resource that cannot be lost. Player Local Authorities and Local Sports Partnerships to over-training and the excessive demands that can promote our games and key messages associated be placed on the best players have been addressed with our sports. but comprehensive action is required to achieve the
l Working within and aligning our programmes to systematic changes that are needed. Good technical the National Strategic Framework as delivered by and tactically aware players will evolve from the Coaching Ireland Fundamentals and Learning to Train phases and as we move forward, well-managed talented young players The integration of a high performance element within will evolve in our system nurtured through meaningful the Ulster GAA Strategy reflects how the GAA system is development squad programmes.
Lifelong Involvement in Sport and Physical Activity (LISPA) Framework
Theme 2: Increasing and Improving the Games
The games have always been Ulster GAA’s main driving force. They remain the GAA’s core business and are what attract most people to it. Ulster GAA’s role is to improve the quality and frequency of the games; increase their participation levels; provide a focus for the development of elite players; and deliver competitions which are attractive and meaningful to GAA people and others of all ages; both sexes; and all backgrounds. The work leading into Ulster GAA Strategy highlighted the following as priorities in this area over the coming years: 36 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 37 Taking Ulster GAA to 2015 Taking Ulster GAA to 2015
Theme 2: Increasing and Improving the Games Committee/ Senior Action Timing Outcome Sought Officer Staff Committee/ Senior Responsibility Lead Action Timing Outcome Sought Officer Staff Responsibility Lead Roll out appropriate Ongoing • All nursery children Coiste Director of age-related competition introduced to Active Start and Forbartha Coaching and Continue to manage Ongoing • Ulster SFC marketed and Coiste Cheannais Provincial that will ensure the Fundamentals Programmes. agus Oiluna Games and deliver Ulster promoted as Ulster’s primary na gChomórtaisí Director development of good • Active Start and Fundamentals GAA competitions. sporting event. physical literacy of delivered to Foundation and • McKenna Cup and Ulster Club Grúpa Oibre children and the technical Key Stage 1 pupils. Championships marketed and Eolas and tactical development • All Under 12 Ulster GAA activity promoted as Ulster’s primary Teicnealaíochta of young players. in Clubs and Primary Schools winter sporting events. based on the Go Games model • All nine Counties participating Margoíochta by 2012. in all Ulster hurling agus Ciadreamh • Regular Go Games Blitzes championships. Poiblí between Clubs and at County Centres of Excellence. Facilitate the bi-annual 2009 • Balanced Province/County Coiste Provincial • Respect for officials, managers seminars of all involved fixtures programmes. Cheannais na Director and players is evident in the GAA fixture making • Adequate and timely gChomórtaisí during competition. process at County; programmes of games for Provincial and Club players. Organise an annual Ongoing • Conference/Forum attracting Coiste Director of Central level. Ulster GAA Coaching attendances of 400. Forbartha Coaching and Conference/Forum, agus Oiluna Games Continue to roll-out Ongoing • 30 Provincial coaching Coiste Director of concentrating on a specific Ulster GAA coaching workshops/events delivered Forbartha Coaching and topic/niche each year. programmes which: each year. agus Oiluna Games • Promote best • Increased attendances by Develop social and 2009 • Adult recreational games Coiste Director of coaching practice women to the workshops. recreational games initiative in place in 2009. Forbartha Coaching and • Reflect GAA burnout • Work closely with County CCC, initiatives for adults and • Increased non-competitive agus Oiluna Games research Vocational and Ulster Colleges underage players participation in gaelic games. • Are attractive to and CAU on the management which include: • Improved “whole family” women coaches of competitions to avoid player • Fun seven-a-side package offered by GAA. • Are attractive to all over load. indoor games • Indoor recreational gaelic GAA units; levels; and • All Ulster Tutors clearly • Street leagues games for young people sectors recognisable through and recreational available in all Ulster Counties • Cover all player ability proper branding. competitions at inter- during the winter. ranges • In-service opportunities firm; Club and • Recreational Blitz Games for • Make best use of GAA for Tutors. County level young available in all Ulster and other facilities • County-based coaching • Over 40s teams in Counties during the spring • Reflect the geography workshops delivered each year. Clubs and further and summer. of Ulster • All registration for programmes development of the • Young people with special • Encourage cross- completed on-line. Ulster Over 40s needs and disabilities involved County sharing of ideas • National Governing Body awards County series in recreational games in all • Emphasise the delivered each year at each level • Opportunities to play Ulster Counties. difference/uniqueness from Foundation to Award 3 in gaelic games indoor on • Involvement of young people on of the GAA line with GAA targets. a County or regional a cross-community basis. • Brand Ulster GAA • All Under 12 Ulster GAA activity basis between schools coaches. based on the Go Games model and/or Clubs by 2015.
38 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 39 Taking Ulster GAA to 2015 Taking Ulster GAA to 2015
Committee/ Senior Committee/ Senior Action Timing Outcome Sought Officer Staff Action Timing Outcome Sought Officer Staff Responsibility Lead Responsibility Lead
• Recreational seven–a-side 2009 Coiste Director of Maintain and develop 2012 • Embedding of player Coiste Director of games opportunities for Forbartha Coaching and supporting structures which development structures Forbartha Coaching and non-elite players agus Oiluna Games ensure that the development through the coaching agus Oiluna Games • Opportunities for people pathways within Counties academies. of all abilities to take part reflect the Pathway to Elite • Embedding best practice in appropriate activity. Performance (PEP) and within development squads include all stakeholders in and schools. Link Comhairle Uladh 2009 • Officers in place in 2009. Coiste Director of player development ensuring • Establish Level 3 coaches staff with newly appointed • Participation in women’s Forbartha Coaching and the managed progression of within each Academy. Camogie and Ladies Gaelic gaelic games increased by agus Oiluna Games talented young players and • Advanced and progressive Football Programme Officers 5% by 2012. recognising the need to take support programmes to to support the development Coiste Iomlánú account for late underpin the structures. of women’s gaelic games developing players. • Personnel trained to deliver in Ulster. Leas- Uachtarán the programme content. • Establishing an inter- Include coverage of Counties’ Ongoing • Mutual reliance of Club Grúpa Oibre Eolas Operations provincial outlet for elute Club activity in all Ulster and County highlighted Teicnealaíochta Manager development squads. GAA inter-County and promoted. match programmes. Margoíochta agus Implement the Ulster GAA Ongoing • Hurling Link in place by 2012. Coiste Hurling Ciadreamh Poiblí hurling strategy, ie: • 20 coaching events Forbartha Development • Re-energise and re-focus delivered pa. Iomána Manager OCP Coiste Forbatha Iomána • 60 teams involved in • Establish Hurling Link on pan-Ulster competition Leas- Uachtarán Work in partnership with local 2012 • Participation programmes Coiste Director of www.ulster.gaa.ie per annum authorities to have in place: delivered in areas of high Forbartha Coaching and • Continue to deliver hurling • All Counties competing • At least one GAA social need. agus Oiluna Games coaching in Ulster Senior; U21; and Community Coach in each • Roll out of disability sport • Appoint six Regional Hurling Minor Championships of the 11 Council Consortia initiatives at club and Community Officers by 2012 areas as part of the Sport county level. Development • Progress hurling games • 57 schools-related blitzes/ NI Active Communities • Roll out of Recreational and Public development events delivered per annum Programme Games at Club and Affairs Manager • Focus attention on schools • Hurling walls included in all • Four coaches in Belfast County level. and colleges new County GAA centres and two in Derry/Strabane • Increased support for Ladies • Develop refereeing • Two referees trained per Consortia Gaelic Football and Camogie • Improve facilities, including county per annum. • At least one dedicated at Club and County level. the development of GAA Community Coach in • New teams formed in hurling walls each of Cavan; Donegal urban areas. • Progress integration with and Monaghan • Development of links with Camogie. • Additionally through schools and creation of the coaching and games Club/school links. Further develop existing 2012 • Three initiatives delivered in Cosite Bainistí Provincial programmes with the twinning/mentoring each jurisdiction. Director promotion of Alcohol arrangements with GAA units and Substance Abuse in Britain and Canada. Director of Programme; Code of Coaching and Ethics; and Health, Games Wellness and Lifestyle.
40 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 41 Taking Ulster GAA to 2015 Taking Ulster GAA to 2015
Committee/ Senior Committee/ Senior Action Timing Outcome Sought Officer Staff Action Timing Outcome Sought Officer Staff Responsibility Lead Responsibility Lead
Develop existing links with 2012 • Annual fixture at Under Coiste Forbartha Director of Identify core posts to include 2012 • In-service training in disability An Choiste Director of Camanachd Association 17 level. agus Oiluna Coaching and specific coordination and special needs provided for Achmhainní Coaching and (Shinty). • Annual fixture with Higher Games responsibility for the teachers and Club coaches. Daonna agus Games Education Council of Britain. following key areas of Ulster • Centres of performance Tuarastail GAA strategy: in place for gaelic games Develop an recreational inter- 2012 • Tournament involving eight Coiste Forbartha Director of • Special Needs and Disability players with special needs. cities GAA Tournament. teams in place by 2012. agus Oiluna Coaching and • Active Communities • Inclusion and integration • Increased awareness and Games Coordination into gaelic games of foreign appreciation of the Ulster • Recreational Participation national and people from GAA brand. • Handball/Rounders non-GAA backgrounds. Development. • Active Communities Progress referee 2012 • Eight referees progressed Coiste Riarachán Director of initiative used to deliver development through: through a Referees’ Réiteoirí Coaching and recreational games. • County and provincial Academy annually. Games • Indoor and outdoor regional based opportunities for • Structured referee blitz opportunities in place training and development education programmes in for all ages. • Re-establish the Referees’ place at County level. • Unified promotion of all Academy to support and • Bi-annual Ulster GAA gaelic games codes. develop top referees Referees Conference and officials. delivered. Deliver High Performance 2012 • A high performance ethos Coiste Forbartha Director of Support Services to coaches & and framework in place agus Oiluna Coaching and Investigate the feasibility 2012 • Officer in place by 2012. Coiste Riarachán Director of others that are at the cutting which reflects international Games of appointing a Referee • Structured development and Réitéoirí Coaching and edge of global best practice via: best practice yet respects Development officer who will support framework in place Games • Appointment of the High the unique amateur status have part responsibility for: for referees. Performance and Talent and life circumstances of • Coordination of ID Manager gaelic games players. appointments • Appointment of a Sport • Coordination of Science Officer referees’ reports • Accessing information days in SINI • Rolling out development • Growing expertise within Counties programmes for officials at by targeting and mentoring County and Provincial levels individuals to deliver core services • Developing and • Providing opportunities to coordinating the travel to and report back from Referees’ Academy international conferences • Benchmarking of GAA services Continue with Ulster GAA 2012 • GAA Code of Conduct in Coiste Forbartha Director of against other sports respect-based and fair place and acted upon. agus Oiluna Coaching and • Cross-fertilisation of ideas across play initiatives. • Improved standards of Games all disciplines within the GAA GAA discipline. • Developing closer working links with the clinical profession Develop strong links with 2012 • Increased participation at Coiste Forbartha Director of • Linking service providers and Disability Sport NI and similar all levels by people with agus Oiluna Coaching and spreading best practice bodies to develop games to disabilities. Games through a formal forum increase participation by • A constant focus on volunteer and people with disabilities. player welfare and lifestyle issues.
42 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 43 Taking Ulster GAA to 2015 Taking Ulster GAA to 2015
Committee/ Senior Committee/ Senior Action Timing Outcome Sought Officer Staff Action Timing Outcome Sought Officer Staff Responsibility Lead Responsibility Lead
Develop supporting services 2012 • A high performance Coiste Forbartha Director of out the decision and who • Ball / hurl used in players that utilise world’s best framework benchmarked agus Oiluna Coaching and have a good understanding physical preparation. practice and are delivered to against world’s best practice, Games of lifestyle issues striking the • Lifestyle issues around player managers, coaches, officials that has engaged with the right balance between sport welfare identified and players in a practical Counties and the Sports their education or work and managed. and applied way that allows Institute to develop a work and life. • Independent volunteer player the GAA to build quality plan that helps to implement welfare coordinators at County expertise that permeates international best practice level to provide pastoral all levels within the County yet respects the unique support to elite players. structures and creates amateur status of Gaelic • Full recovery from injuries. long term sustainability of games players. expertise, knowledge • Sustainability; knowledge; Support schools, colleges 2015 • Increased understanding Coiste Forbartha Director of and competencies. and competencies and universities in the between schools and county agus Oiluna Coaching established in key areas. development of talented development systems and and Games • Ideas on high performance young players by putting universities and the County shared between GAA codes in place open and efficient senior and U21 Squads. Coiste na through a formal forum. communication structures, • Opportunities in place for gColaistí Uladh • Team of service providers by supporting Principals, teachers and third level in place in each County to Teachers and Coaches to coaches to take Level 2 and 3 Coiste na support all areas of player deliver appropriate coaching coaching awards. nGairmscoileanna and team development. and lifestyle messages and by • Lifestyle programmes Uladh utilising the resources found influencing young people Support from the Sports 2012 • Senior County teams Coiste Forbartha Director of in the education sector. • Engagement with medical Institute NI who will be engaging with SINI to agus Oiluna Coaching and personnel on a regular and CAU challenged to assist with help identify gaps in their Games formal basis to exchange ideas the preparation of senior preparation and the specific • Appropriate level competitions county football and hurling needs that they have to help in place to encourage teams, and international bring them to the next level. high performance. handballers and support • Best practice in service the mentoring of service provision obtained from Support Common Goals 2015 • Increased understanding Coiste Bainistí Provincial providers and talented SINI and a comprehensive that are realised and agreed between schools and county Director young players. mentoring programme in place. between all stakeholders development systems and Coiste Forbartha • SINI facilities used to responsible for player universities and the County agus Oiluna Director of support the development of development, through more senior and U21 Squads. Coaching talented young people and open communication and • Improved engagement with and Games to engage GAA personnel better co-operation in the the Sports Institute. mentoring in the key service management of talented • Twice-yearly seminars for GAA provision areas. young players. inter-County managers and Coaches and key stakeholders Support Counties to develop 2012 • Players encouraged to take Coiste Forbartha Director of in the high performance programmes that establish decisions from an early age. agus Oiluna Coaching and programme. players who can make the • Key personnel in place to Games right decisions at the right deliver the right physical time and who are technically preparation at the right competent and physically time in the young and mentally strong to carry player’s development.
44 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 45 Taking Ulster GAA to 2015
Committee/ Senior Action Timing Outcome Sought Officer Staff Responsibility Lead
Support the Training and 2015 • Formal links with Sports Coiste Forbartha Director of Development of personnel Institute to ensure agus Oiluna Coaching and to ensure that managers, continued exposure to Games coaches and service worlds best practice. personnel are exposed to • Integrated workshop and have an opportunity to programme to challenge experience high performance team managers sporting practice. • Integrated workshops programmes for coaches. • Integrated workshop programmes for service providers. • Mentoring programmes for coaches and service providers to develop knowledge and key competencies. • Integration of theory and practical into coaching practice. • Development of all County- based coaches to level 3 status.
Support innovation, research 2015 • GAA Tech in place and Coiste Forbartha Director of and development by projects negotiated and agus Oiluna Coaching and formalising GAA Tech as a formalised with funding and Games formal research body which key outcomes. provides analysis and support • Presentation of research for the ongoing development and application of of GAA at High technologies on the national Performance level. and international arenas.
46 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 47 Title to go here Taking Ulster GAA to 2015 Sub Title to go here Theme 3: There is a driving need to facilitate the involvement of Club needs. It is also important that GAA facilities are as many people as possible but within settings which taken forward as part of the GAA brand and that they both meet stringent health and safety standards and promote the GAA’s identity and presence. This needs which are attractive and comfortable. The provision of to happen at all levels and locations where Ulster GAA Increasing and GAA facilities needs to match other aims of the Ulster operates, ie Provincial; regional; County; Club; schools Improving the GAA GAA Strategic Plan and to reflect provincial; County and and partnership projects with others. Theme 3: Increasing and Improving the GAA Plant: Facilities and Infrastructure Plant: Facilities and Committee/ Senior Action Timing Outcome Sought Officer Staff Infrastructure Responsibility Lead Ensure that the GAA in Ongoing • Full compliance with agreed Coiste Provincial Ulster is compliant with safety standards Páirceanna agus Director all relevant health and • Safe environments for playing Sábháileachta Ulster GAA continues to focus on providing and then safety; disability/access and attending Ulster GAA games Operations maintaining: and licensing legislation. • Relevant personnel trained Manager • Designated grounds safety • places in which to play gaelic games officer in each County. • places in which to watch them • places in which to prepare for and manage gaelic games and Organise a quarterly 2009 • Council’s physical facilities Coiste Bainistí Operations associated activities. meeting with County monitoring role delivered. Manager Development Officers. Uachtarán
Review the role and 2009 • Fit for purpose Committee Coiste Bainistí Provincial remit of the Ulster Club overseeing the Club Planning Director Planning and Physical and Development Agenda. Uachtarán Development Committee.
Develop a suite of advice 2009 • All GAA Clubs have access to at Coiste Forbairt Operations and guidance (face-to- least two locally-based fit-for- Fisiciúl Pleanáil Manager face via annual workshops purpose GAA pitches by 2015 na gClub and seminars; written; • All new GAA facilities from 2010 Community and online) for Clubs and are fit-for-purpose re women’s Coiste Bainistí Development Counties covering areas gaelic games and Public such as: • All new facilities from 2010 are Affairs Manager • Pitch development branded as GAA facilities. and maintenance • Changing accommodation • Club buildings • Floodlighting • Artificial surfaces • Spectator accommodation • Gymnasia • Indoor training facilities • Handball walls and alleys
48 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 49 Taking Ulster GAA to 2015 Taking Ulster GAA to 2015
Committee/ Senior Committee/ Senior Action Timing Outcome Sought Officer Staff Action Timing Outcome Sought Officer Staff Responsibility Lead Responsibility Lead
• Hurling walls 2009 • Conditioning facilities • Funding opportunities • Plunge pools • Branding facilities as • Access by women’s GAA facilities. gaelic games • Access by schools & Colleges Continue to invest in the 2012 • Fit-for-purpose Coiste Bainistí Operations • Clear GAA branding modernisation of the main County facilities. Manager • Provision for Handball County grounds to improve spectator comfort. Develop, ideally in collaboration 2015 • Improved delivery Coiste Bainistí Provincial with a County, an Ulster GAA of Ulster GAA’s core Director Complete Ulster GAA flood 2012 • Flood lights installed in Coiste Bainistí Operations Performance Centre business activities. lighting programme in ninth Clones by 2012 Manager which includes: Operations County venue. • Province-wide capacity to • High performance provision Manager deliver after-hours • An Ulster GAA administrative gaelic games. headquarters.
Upgrade secondary County 2015 • Nine secondary grounds Coiste Bainistí Operations Establish three regional 2015 • Improved visibility of and Coiste Bainistí Operations grounds (on a phased, priority flood-lit by 2015. Manager Handball centres as part of participation in handball. Manager basis reflecting geographical the physical development Coiste Liathróid spread and current facilities) to programme. Láimhe Uladh include floodlights, improved media facilities and player/ Work with local and central Ongoing • All new public sports Coiste Bainistí Provincial spectator facilities. government and educational facilities provided from Director authorities to ensure that 2010 onwards are fit-for- Achieve Ulster’s GAA strategic 2015 • A fit-for-purpose stadium Coiste Bainistí Provincial publicly-funded sports purpose in terms of Operations requirement for a 40,000- in Ulster meeting the Director provision is fit-for-purpose for gaelic games. Manager 45,000 capacity stadium. “Enhancing Community Uachtarán gaelic games in that they: • All GAA Clubs have access Identity” target of 40,000- • Are of a size/layout suitable to at least two locally- Community 60,000 capacity. for gaelic games based fit-for-purpose GAA Development • Accommodate specific pitches by 2015. and Public Support the development of 2015 • 14 centres in place by 2015 Coiste Bainistí Provincial provision such as hurling walls • Partnerships with Affairs Manager Regional GAA centres • Improved delivery of Ulster Director • Include changing facilities for local authorities in the as follows: GAA’s core games and team panels of 30 players development of facilities. • One per County other activities. Operations • Include (where provided) • One urban cluster each in Manager flood-lighting which Belfast and Derry facilitates gaelic games • Three sub-regional rural • Have suitable facilities cluster bases. for the roll out of Active Communities and Each County centre should DENI Programme. include one regional third generation full-size pitch. Each Continue to invest in Club Ongoing • Improved GAA facilities Coiste Operations GAA Centre should include: facilities through the Council’s and infrastructure Páirceanna agus Manager • Support facilities grant aid and support across Ulster. Sábháileachta • Hurling Wall programmes managed by the • Indoor training provision Parks and Safety Committee.
50 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 51 Theme 4: Enhancing the “Gaelic” in GAA: Taking Ulster GAA to 2015 Culture and l A re-energising of Scór, with clear leadership shown l A renewed focus, driven in the first instance by the within Counties and Clubs GAA’s 125 celebrations in 2009, on GAA heritage l The development of cultural links with the Ulster Heritage l The more widespread presence and visibility of Irish language; culture; and heritage within GAA settings Scots communities.
Theme 4: Enhancing the “Gaelic” in GAA: Culture and Heritage
Committee/ Senior Action Timing Outcome Sought Officer Staff Responsibility Lead
Develop a series of events as 2009 • 125 anniversary Coiste 125 Provincial part of the 125th anniversary appropriately celebrated Director of the Association and which in Ulster. Uachtarán will assist in the ongoing • 125 legacy established. Community development of culture • Improved awareness and Development and heritage initiatives. 125 understanding of the Ulster and Public Programme to range across GAA brand. Affairs Manager all aspects of the GAA in all parts of Ulster and to: • Remember/commemorate what’s gone before • Celebrate where the GAA is at now • Leave a legacy for the future.
Develop a “This is the GAA” 2009 • Clear communication to Coiste Forbartha Director of resource to fit within all programme participants re agus Oiluna Coaching and Ulster GAA coaching and how the GAA is different Games, development programmes. and unique. Community Development Whilst gaelic games always and Public have been and remain the Affairs Manager GAA’s core business, they are managed and enjoyed Introduce the Irish Language 2009 • All new resources including Coiste Gaeilge Community as a key component of all an Irish dimension agus Development to best effect when fitted Ulster GAA resources and from 2009. Oidherachta and Public within a framework which publications, including in Affairs Manager includes Irish cultural and particular the Ulster GAA OCP heritage activities. These website www.ulster.gaa.ie aspects are central to the GAA’s uniqueness and Highlight the Ulster GAA 2009 • Attendances increased Coiste Gaeilge Community difference and will be taken Irish Language course each by 10%. agus Development forward as such by Ulster summer as Comhairle Oidherachta and Public GAA. The planning process Uladh’s primary Irish Affairs Manager set as priorities language event.
52 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 53 Taking Ulster GAA to 2015 Taking Ulster GAA to 2015
Committee/ Senior Committee/ Senior Action Timing Outcome Sought Officer Staff Action Timing Outcome Sought Officer Staff Responsibility Lead Responsibility Lead
Continue to play an active and 2009 • GAA centrally-placed Coiste Bainistí Provincial Director, In conjunction with Foras na 2012 • Improved awareness Coiste Gaeilge Community full part in the development of and within the Museum. Community Gaeilge organise a series of and understanding of agus Development the Ulster Sports Museum. ongoing • Increased promotion of Uachtarán Development Irish Language courses aimed the Irish language. Oidherachta and Public Ulster GAA to and Public at GAA members. Affairs Manager new audiences. Affairs Manager Organise an annual Irish 2012 • Improved awareness Coiste Gaeilge Community Work with others to deliver 2009 • Two such events run/ Coiste Gaeilge Community language course for Council and understanding of agus Development annual programmes of GAA facilitated each year. agus Development and Members and Staff. the Irish language. Oidherachta and Public heritage-related events, with an Oidherachta Public Affairs Affairs Manager ongoing focus on the importance Manager of place and community. Contribute to Seachtain na 2012 • Improved awareness Coiste Gaeilge Community Gaelige on an annual basis. and understanding of agus Development Develop and roll out a 2012 • Improved awareness and Grúpa Oibre Eolas Community the Irish language. Oidherachta and Public programme assisting Clubs in understanding of the Teicnealaíochta, Development and Affairs Manager the development of crests and GAA brand and Clubs’ Margoíochta agus Public Affairs GAA branding. place within it. Ciadreamh Poiblí, Manager, Establish in each County 2012 • Improved awareness Coiste Forbartha Director of OCP Operations Manager a summer coaching camp and understanding of agus Oiluna, Coaching and delivered through the medium the Irish language. Coiste Gaeilge Games Using the new GAA branding 2012 • Improved awareness and Coiste Gaeilge Community of Irish. • Visible integration of agus Development guidelines to establish signage understanding of the agus Oidherachta, Development and gaelic games and the Oidherachta templates for use in all GAA brand. Grúpa Oibre Eolas Public Affairs Irish language. GAA facilities. • All Clubs and grounds Teicnealaíochta, Manager, identified via Margoíochta agus Operations Organise an annual historical/ 2012 • Visible integration of Coiste Gaeilge Community Irish signage. Ciadreamh Poiblí Manager heritage event with a focus on gaelic games and Irish agus Development Ulster GAA. history and heritage. Oidherachta and Public Establish a formal link with 2012 • One event run each year. Coiste Iomaná Hurling Affairs Manager the Ulster Scots community • Increased mutual Development organising ongoing joint understanding and Manager Continue the process of assisting 2015 • All Ulster GAA archive Coiste Bainistí, Provincial Director, initiatives including annual appreciation of cultural/ the development of an Ulster material lodged and Coiste 125, Community Dev. Shinty/hurling events both in games heritages. GAA archive in the Cardinal Ó made accessible in Uachtarán and Public Ireland and Scotland. Fiaich Library Armagh. the Library. Affairs Manager
Re-energise Scór by: 2012 • 80% of Clubs An Coiste Scór Community Incorporate a gaelic art 2015 • One piece of gaelic art Coiste Operations • Reviewing its current participating in Scór agus Cultúir Development component at all County in all County grounds Forbartha Manager operations and status by 2015. and Public grounds and GAA centres. by 2013. • Rebranding it and improving Affairs Manager its promotion Work with local and central 2015 • Improved awareness Coiste Forbartha Community • Establishing an Ulster GAA government to secure public and recognition of GAA Development Cultural Officer though a signage for all GAA grounds facilities and premises. and Public third level student and stadiums. Affairs Manager, placement programme. Operations Manager
Support culture and heritage- • Improved awareness Coiste Gaeilge Community 2012 Initiate on-line Ulster GAA 2015 • Central archive of Coiste Gaeilge Community related competitions and events and understanding of agus Development and historical archive project as Ulster GAA material. agus Development within the education sector, both heritage and culture- Oidherachta Public Affairs part of www.ulster.gaa.ie. Oidherachta, and Public Irish & English-medium, at both related issues. Manager OCP Affairs Manager primary and secondary level.
54 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 55 Theme 5: The GAA’s End Purpose: Community Taking Ulster GAA to 2015
Development, l Strengthening its community development l Expanding the focus on health, well-being support capacity and lifestyle
l Continuing to provide structured support for l Continuing to provide specific support re the Inclusion and volunteers at Club and County levels development of strategic plans across Ulster GAA Cohesion Theme 5: The GAA’s End Purpose: Community Development, Inclusion and Cohesion Committee/ Senior Action Timing Outcome Sought Officer Staff Responsibility Lead
Establish a Community 2009 • Unit in place and working. Coiste Bainistí Provincial Development and Inclusion • Continued promotion of the Director Unit (CDIU) with a focus full breadth and depth of Uachtarán on Club Development and GAA activity. Community Volunteer Support; • Nine annual County level Development Strategic Development; Club development and Public Health, Wellbeing and seminars delivered. Affairs Manager Lifestyle; Culture; • Nine annual County level Community Outreach, volunteer training Diversity and Public Affairs. seminars delivered. • Three regional diversity training seminars delivered.
Develop strong links across Ongoing • Annual Ulster GAA “public Coiste Bainistí Provincial local and central government. affairs” brochure published Director • GAA activities accepted Uachtarán and supported as central to Community government’s regeneration; Development cohesion; and community and Public development work. Affairs Manager
Continue to develop and 2009 • Sports Councils and other Coiste Community roll-out Club Maith by: relevant accreditation gained Forbartha Development • Building and expanding by 2010. and Public the web-site • 50% of Clubs Club Maith- Affairs Manager • Building and expanding accredited by 2015. the tool-kit • Providing ongoing advice and support.
Review the roll-out and 2009 • Up-to-date plans in place for Coiste Forbartha Community progress of the nine County all nine Counties in 2015. Development GAA strategic plans on and Public During this decade Ulster GAA has taken forward pioneering work in bi-annual basis. Affairs Manager supporting the GAA’s role and place as a forceful community anchor and creator of social capital. It is very clear about the importance of what the Develop and roll out an 2012 • At least five volunteers Coiste Forbartha Community GAA does in these areas and wants to continue to embed it in the “GAA Ulster GAA Club and County trained in each Ulster GAA Development package”. The consultations and analysis which underpin “Na Chéad level volunteer officer Club by 2015. and Public training programme. Affairs Manager Chéimeanna Eile” suggested that Ulster GAA should concentrate on:
56 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 57 Taking Ulster GAA to 2015 Taking Ulster GAA to 2015
Committee/ Senior Committee/ Senior Action Timing Outcome Sought Officer Staff Action Timing Outcome Sought Officer Staff Responsibility Lead Responsibility Lead
Continue to organise an annual Ongoing • Conference/Forum Coiste Community • Establishing Ulster GAA • All Clubs screening Ulster GAA Club, Community, attracting attendances Forbartha Development Healthy Club and Healthy players using the GAA Volunteer Development of 400+. and Public School awards programmes. cardiac screening Conference/Forum. Affairs Manager questionnaire. • All Clubs promoting Develop an Ulster GAA Awards 2012 • Awards framework in place Coiste Community the availability of framework which covers/ for 2010. Forbartha Development and defibrillators includes: • Continued promotion and Public Affairs • Player awards in all increased public awareness Manager Establish a GAA community 2012 • Education programme Coiste Community gaelic codes of the full breadth and education programme in promoting the history, Forbartha Development/ • Coaching awards depth of GAA activity. conjunction with St. Mary’s values and work of the Public Affairs • Volunteer awards University College Belfast, and GAA at third level. Manager • Club and school awards Queen’s University Belfast. The Council will also work to Establish a County Maith 2012 • Scheme scoped and agreed Coiste Provincial Director, development programmes with support scheme, to include an with Counties by 2010. Forbartha Community third level institutions to deal officer accreditation process. • All Counties accredited Development with specific areas of by 2015. Uachtarán and Public interest and relevance to Affairs Manager either community or sports development. Support Cumann na mBunscol 2012 • Scoil Maith launched in 2009. Coiste Community Uladh in the development of a • Primary Schools fit- Forbartha, Development/ Develop new GAA urban 2012 • Up-to-date plans in place Coiste Community Scoil Maith programme. for-purpose in terms of Cumann na Public Affairs strategic plans for Belfast for both cities in 2015. Forbartha Development developing and delivering mBunscol Uladh Manager and Derry. and Public gaelic games. Affairs Manager
Continue to roll-out Ulster Ongoing • Events organised in Health Coiste Health and Identify and take forward 2012 • Two urban-based/focused Coiste Community GAA’s Health, Well-Being and Awareness, ASAP and First Forbartha Wellbeing new initiatives to increase initiatives put in place Forbartha Development Lifestyle agenda across the Aid covering all the Manager the presence of and people’s each year. and Public Province, including: nine Counties. Coiste involvement in the GAA in the Affairs Manager • A primary and secondary • Continued promotion and Forbartha province’s larger urban areas. schools educational increased public awareness agus Oiluna health programme of the full breadth and Support the development of 2015 • Up-to-date plans in place Coiste Community • Enhancing the third level depth of GAA activity. strategic plans for the GAA’s for all sectors in 2015. Forbartha Development/ “Drink, Drugs and Sausage • Improved levels of educational sector in Ulster, ie: Public Affairs Rolls Programme” well-being within • Cumman na Bunscol Manager • Organising health events on GAA communities. • Ulster Vocational Schools regional basis in identified • Through Club Maith • Ulster Colleges cluster Clubs promote the concept • Comhairle Ardoideachais • Establishment and training of Volunteer health Uladh. of dedicated Club Health and coordinator in each Club Well-Being Officers as good practice. Support the development of 2015 • Strategic plans in place Coiste Iomlánú Community • Forming new links with • Active health/ASAP policy strategic plans for the Ulster for all Ulster Gaelic Development agencies and bodies in each Club. Council’s integration Games Councils. and Public responsible for the promotion partners, ie: Affairs Manager of Health and Well-being • Ladies Gaelic Football
58 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 59 Taking Ulster GAA to 2015 Title to go here Sub Title to go here Committee/ Senior Action Timing Outcome Sought Officer Staff Responsibility Lead
• Camogie 2015 Coiste Iomlánú • Rounders • Handball.
Develop outreach initiatives Ongoing • At least nine cross- Coiste Bainistí Provincial focused on forming links and community gaelic games Director promoting understanding with initiatives established Uachtarán the Unionist community by 2015. Community in Ulster. • Increased awareness and Development understanding of the GAA and Public and its activities by the Affairs Manager Unionist Community. • Annual open-day for groups which currently have no connection with the GAA. • Links established with community and other relevant groups to promote mutual understanding and respect. • Annual event hosted for the educational sector which involves Governors and Teachers from all sections of the community. • Displays/showcases of different cultural traditions included at Ulster GAA events.
60 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 61 Managing for Delivery Managing for Delivery
Comhairle Uladh’s previous two strategies were Volunteering successful because their implementation was managed. The same approach will be taken with this strategy based on two core principles: National Initiative/ Target Ulster Initiative Current Status
l The Council’s elected volunteer Committees will oversee; guide; and monitor the implementation, as Volunteer Forum: Annual Community Development In place since 2007 well as delivering large tracts of the work. Feedback process for national volunteer Conference. The Council’s forum in place at provincial level. l The newly established Council’s Staff Executive team will comprise of the following staff: Provincial Officer Training in place New Officer training programme In progress • Provincial Director elected volunteer being developed for 2010. • Director of Coaching and Games • Finance Manager Volunteer Committees: Review of Ulster GAA Committees Commenced in 2008 • Operations Manager Committees will Review Volunteer Committee Structure • Community Development/Public Affairs Manager at Provincial Level. The Executive Team will support the volunteers and oversee; guide oversee the delivery of much of the work involved in Officer Training: All officers have Volunteer Development Programme In progress 2009-2015 Strategic Vision and Action Plan. and monitor the completed training modules. For each action in the body of the document the various Bi-annual Provincial Volunteer forum Ulster Community Development In place since 2007 Committee and staff responsibilities are clearly marked. implementation, in place Conference The Council’s Developments Committee will take overall responsibility for the implementation of the strategy and Officer Training Provincial Officer Ulster Volunteer Development In progress will report accordingly to the Ulster Convention each training ongoing programme year. At a more operational level, the Provincial Director as well as and the Staff Executive team will present a quarterly Recruitment “Tool-Kit” in place Ulster GAA Club Maith Tool-kit In place progress report to the Management Committee. This report will highlight: delivering large
l Progress to date with the strategy tracts of Games Schedule l Any issues arising
l Any variances from what was planned and any Fixtures planning: Provincial Fixtures Committee established and In progress remedial action to be taken the work. planning committees appointed appointments will take place after 2009 Ulster Convention The Provincial Director will report on the implementation of the strategy at the monthly meetings of the National Education: Fixtures planning education Bi-Annual fixtures seminars with In place GAA Executive Committee and the President of the Ulster programme in place County officials in place Council will submit ongoing reports on the progress
of the strategy to both the National Management Future planning: Each Province has a CCC 2010 plans currently in In progress Committee and the Central Council. fixtures plan in place for 2010 development
Delivering on the National GAA Agenda Annual reporting, review and planning Bi-Annual fixtures seminars with In place since 2008 process in place County Officials serve as forum for Comhairle Uladh has a central role to play in helping roll out the GAA’s national Strategic Vision and Action Plan. It has review and future planning no hesitation in rising to meet this challenge. A number of tasks within the national Vision and Plan have been allocated to Provincial Councils. Those tasks, and where they are addressed in “Teaghlaigh agus Pobail: An Fabraic de CLG” are summarised below: National referees’ plan integrated in Referee Development Committee plan In progress provincial plan in development 2009 2011 2015
62 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 63 Managing for Delivery Managing for Delivery
2009 2011 2015 Communication
Games Development National Initiative/ Target Ulster Initiative Current Status
National Initiative/ Target Ulster Initiative Current Status PRO: Training plan for PROs established County and Club officer training In progress programme in development Respect initiative piloted at Under Respect Initiative operating at Club, In place since 2007 12 level County and Provincial Level Officer Training: Develop a County and Club officer training In progress training programme for effective programme in development Code of best practice for youth sport: Child Protection and Ethics procedures In place since 2005 communication for GAA officers Provincial training teams established in developed and operating each province Communications Calendar: Communications team currently In place since 2008 Produce Provincial 2010 developing new plan for 2010 Underage games: representative group Youth Work Group will be established In progress communications calendar established to oversee underage games after 2009 Ulster Convention programme under the leadership of Monitoring; Communications Communications team in place In place since 2008 the Provincial games monitoring included in provincial development committee management and planning
Refresh Provincial Web-site Web-site updated in 2008 and next In place since 2008 review due to take place in 2012 Urbanisation
Provincial Steering Groups set up to put Derry and Belfast Derry strategy and urban Inclusion and Integration urban development plans in place Urban Programmes project in place since 2004 and currently being Inclusion strategy: Ulster GAA inclusion plan in place In place since 2006 reviewed: Belfast Strategy Roll-out inclusion strategy since 2006 and urban project launched in 2009 2009 Training: Provincial staff team All Ulster GAA staff receive ongoing In place since 2007 trained in the area of positive inclusion diversity training Sample urban development plans Sample available on Club In place since 2007 in place Maith Website Provincial plan to include pro-inclusion Ulster GAA inclusion plan in place In place since “Beir Bua” initiatives since 2006 published in 2002 Urban development projects active in all Urban Projects active in both Derry In place since 2004 urban areas in the province City and Belfast Cross Community Ulster Community Two cross community projects In progress since 2007 outreach projects in place in place Best Practice; dedicated team in place Community Development Unit CDU in place since 2008 in the Province to oversee targets and Staff have responsibility for urban and other links in place Links with newcomers: Develop Provincial No progress on this issue to date Not Started replicate best practice development: links established with since 2004 Scór initiative to increase links with other urban regeneration practitioners newcomer communities
Centre of Excellence in each urban area Plans in place for urban centres in In progress Officer training 50% officers completed Regional Diversity Training Nights in In place since 2007: in the Province established both Derry City and Belfast diversity training operation Volunteers and officers trained New series of urban focus areas Part of Derry and Belfast strategies In place since 2004 identified as a result of changing Provincial Personnel: All Provincial All Ulster GAA staff receive ongoing In place since 2007 demographics personnel training in diversity inclusion diversity training
64 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 65 Managing for Delivery Managing for Delivery
2009 2011 2015 Streamline funding relationships with New funding plans in place for In progress Fundraising provinces and counties 2009/2010
Roll-out Provincial best-practice model Full audit achieved without In place since 2006 National Initiative/ Target Ulster Initiative Current Status qualification for 2008 accounts
Identify person within the GAA to be Provincial Director supported by Staff Ulster GAA attendances responsible for promoting attendances Executive Team have responsibility for increased in 2008 Club, Culture and Community in the Province this issue National Initiative/ Target Ulster Initiative Current Status Attendances: Provincial initiatives in ICT & Marketing Committee Ulster GAA attendances place to promote attendances Championship Marketing plan increased in 2008 being developed 125th Anniversary: Promote and 125 Committee and support Ulster GAA 125 coordinate 125th anniversary club team place. Programme being Three year commercial plan for A working group comprising of Plan scheduled for cultural nights rolled out Province and Provincial satisfaction members from the Finance Committee, 2009 All clubs in receipt of 125 Ulster GAA index in place ICT and Marketing Committee and support pack Developments Committee will be established to develop the Provincial Communications: Develop a provincial Community Development Staff in the In place Commercial Plan network of cultural officers process of completing overall Club officer date base Review: Review of attendance trends Review of 2008 championship In place and marketing of games completed at completed. Arrangements in place Parents: Develop material introducing Club School links resource and Club In place Provincial Level for 2009 parents to the GAA Maith took-kit includes information for parents Attendances in Provincial Commercial Plan in development Ulster GAA attendances Championships increased by 10% increased in 2008 Club Maith advice service in place cumulatively since 2008 Websites: Hold workshops to promote Club Maith web-site “As Gaelige” In progress Membership card rolled out at Awaiting direction from Central Council Not Started web-site templates “As Gaelige”. All section in development Provincial level provinces have “As Gaelige” section on their website. Provincial spectator satisfaction index No developments on this issue to date Not Started in place. All provinces have up to date Ulster GAA on-line events calendar In place since 2008 community, family and cultural events in place on their website calendar. Financial Excellence Signposts; Develop a relationship Community Development Unit In progress: key action in with local authorities to cooperate in progressing this issue with “Teaghlaigh agus Pobail: Introduce standard format technologies Financial Management Procedures In place since 2006 signpost initiative. local government An Fabraic de CLG” and procedures in Place
Merit based funding: Pilot merit based Merit based funding model being In progress funding for games development applied to Ulster Council
Standard audit process in place Full audit achieved for 2008 accounts In place since 2006
Introduce value for money audits at Finance Committee progressing In progress Provincial and County Units this issue
66 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 67 Managing for Delivery Title to go here Sub Title to go here 2009 2011 2015
Planning
National Initiative/ Target Ulster Initiative Current Status
Guidelines: Planning Guidelines and Planning guidelines and support In place since 2007 templates in place material present on the Club Maith website. All Clubs now in receipt of the Club Maith Tool-kit
Five year strategy Every Province has a Third Ulster GAA five year strategy in In place since 2002 five year strategy and action plan in place place from 2009
Staff roles: Full-time staff roles and Ulster GAA business planning process In place since 2007 responsibilities are linked with this plan in place
Quarterly Meetings; Provincial Staff County strategy review process In progress have quarterly meetings with whoever commencing in April 2009 is responsible for delivering the plan in the counties
Provincial Support Process: Support and Eight County strategic plans in place Plans for all Ulster improvement process in place with Provincial support. County Maith Counties in place for counties accreditation mark being developed in 2009
Next Plan; Provincial Plan in place with Current plan timeframe 2009-2015 In progress rewards linked to achievements
Officer Support
Deliver and monitor high quality Community Development and Inclusion In place service to our officers Unit in place
On-line Club Support Service in place
Club Maith Accreditation Award in place
Club Maith Officer Resource Website in place
Club Maith Club and Volunteer Tool-kit in place
Club Planning resources in place
Officer training programme in development
On-line discussion forum in place
68 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 69 Title to go here Appendix- Sub Title to go here Ulster Hurling Development Strategy 2009-2014
Teachtaireacht ón Leas-Uachtarán agus Cathaoirleach Coiste Forbartha Iomána Message from the Ulster GAA Vice President and Chairman of the Provincial Hurling Development Committee
I am delighted to report that the most recent GAA Hurling Development Manager Jimmy Darragh for strategy for the development of Hurling in Ulster his contribution to this plan in addition to his continued (2002 – 2006) identified a number of priorities and hard working and professional approach to the ongoing recommendations, many of which have been achieved. development of Hurling in Ulster.
Hurling was identified as a key priority for development Aogan Ó Fearghail within the Ulster Council’s second strategy Beir Bua Nua Leas Uachtarán and is again identified as a key priority in “Teaghlaigh agus Pobail: An Fabraic de CLG”. The development of a robust Hurling Development Strategy was also included as a key performance indicator within the Council’s Business Case for funding to Department for Culture, Arts and Leisure.
Comhairle Uladh published its first Strategy for the Development of Hurling in Ulster in 2002 covering the This new strategy, period up to 2006. During this time the Council has overseen many changes in the political and sporting an appendix to the landscape both within Ulster and throughout Ireland. Most notably in 2005 the Council secured a funding package for the overall development of Gaelic Games overall Provincial in the northern six counties which saw the employment of key staff for a three year period. Comhairle Uladh Strategy document, supported investment in programmes in Cavan, Donegal and Monaghan to ensure that there was equity among all will serve as a work the Ulster Counties. plan for our hard Moving forward it was decided to use the Council’s existing Business Case and Strategy for the development of Hurling as a starting point for the development of a working Hurling new strategy. As a result, a consultation and planning process was initiated within Ulster which resulted in the Development development a new Hurling Development Strategy for the period 2009 – 2014. This new strategy an appendix Committee as they to the overall Provincial Strategy document will serve as a work plan for our hard working Hurling Development strive to strengthen Committee as they strive to strengthen the National game in our Province. the National game in A lot of work and effort has went into developing this document and I am grateful to the members Ulster our Province. Hurling Development Committee for their work in putting this document together namely: Seamus McGrattan (Secretary), Frank Smith (Antrim), Pat Donaghy (Armagh), Tom Reilly (Cavan), Michael Murphy (Derry), Naul McCole (Donegal), Ronan Sheehan (Down), Kevin Corrigan (Fermanagh) Noel Mullaney (Monaghan) and Tony Fawl (Tyrone). I would also express my sincere thanks to Ulster
70 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 71 Comhairle Uladh CLG Comhairle Uladh CLG Hurling Strategy 2009-2014 Hurling Strategy 2009-2014
Ulster is the weakest of the four Provinces in Hurling, in terms of both participation and achievement. Governance Across all nine Counties Hurling is viewed as being inferior to Gaelic Football, as can be evidenced Rationale Strategy Outcomes Sought through the number of clubs participating and the lack of development and investment from a number of Currently there is a Coiste Iomána remains in place but • Coiste Iomána representative of all County Boards. two track approach to must be made up of delegates who Counties within the Province. A quick scan of the number of clubs participating in the administration of are in a position to represent Hurling each County will show the challenge that exists if Gaelic Games within interests within their respective County. • Members of Coiste Iomána to be Hurling is to compete with Gaelic Football across the the Province. A Hurling Members of and report to their Province. Even at County level it is evident that Hurling Committee exists as a • Improved communication between County Executive. is not being given the priority it deserves. Each year all sub-committee of the County Boards and Comhairle Uladh Counties play in the Senior, Minor and Under 21 Football Ulster Development on Hurling issues. • 2 new twinning initiatives set up Championships yet in 2007 only four Ulster Counties Committee and has each year. competed in the Senior and Minor Hurling Championship, been charged with the Coiste Forbartha Iomána - and three competed in the Under 21 competition. The development of Hurling responsible for: • Development of 20 new Hurling units trend is repeated within each Ulster County, where fewer clubs play Hurling than Gaelic Football. This situation is in Ulster. This Committee each year. most evident in some of the weaker Counties where the is Chaired by the • Twinning initiatives within Ulster number of senior clubs participating in the County can Comhairle Uladh Leas- • Allocation of Start-up Hurling Grants • All Counties represented. be as low as two. This area of development must Uachtarán and is made • Feile Uladh be addressed if Hurling is to survive within some of up from one delegate • Indoor Hurling Initiatives. • A minimum of 60% of all Hurling our Counties. from each of the clubs participating. Ulster Counties. Fixtures • Organise an indoor hurling blitz in All Ulster Hurling fixtures shall each County. Hurling Clubs be administered by the Ulster Competitions Control Committee. • Organise an annual Provincial Indoor Under 14 Feile County Hurling Clubs Hurling Blitz. Entrants 2007
Antrim 36 22 Referee Appointments • Commencing in 2009 Ulster All referee appointments for Ulster Competitions Control Committee to Armagh 8 8 Hurling fixtures shall be made by the administer all Ulster Hurling fixtures. Ulster Referees Committee. Cavan 4 0 In order to address this situation it is necessary to • Commencing in 2009 Ulster Referee’s expand the game across a number of fronts all of which Derry 8 6 contribute to the future development of Hurling. The key Committee to appoint referees to all areas identified for development are: Ulster Hurling fixtures. Donegal 7 5
l Governance Down 10 9 Development of Cross In some instances for competition • Development of improved competitive Fermanagh 2 0 l Information and Communication Technology Provincial Hurling purposes Ulster Counties and Clubs standards of Hurling at County and Activity. may participate with the approval of Club Level. Monaghan 7 1 l Refereeing the Ulster Council outside the Province. Conversely, in certain circumstances • Improved player skill level. Tyrone 5 4 l Coaching and Games Development teams from outside Ulster may participate in Ulster Competitions . • Achievement of Developmental TOTAL 87 55 l Schools and Colleges Hurling Targets.
72 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 73 Comhairle Uladh CLG Comhairle Uladh CLG Hurling Strategy 2009-2014 Hurling Strategy 2009-2014
Information Communication Technology Coaching and Games Development
Rationale Strategy Outcomes Sought Rationale Strategy Outcomes Sought
In a modern society A dedicated Hurling link to be set up • Hurling link to be operational by 2009 The development • Recruit and develop a panel • 10 tutors developed to deliver new where information on the Comhairle Uladh Web Site. and will provide information on: of Ulster’s coaches of tutors to deliver the new coaching awards. technology is readily is essential if Ulster coaching awards. available in most homes Electronic Correspondence • Hurling Coaching and Hurling is to compete and most people have Development articles on the national • Strategic delivery of new • 6 x Level One Courses access to computers it is stage. It is therefore coaching awards throughout vital that Ulster Council • Grants for Hurling development important that future the Province. • 2 x level 2 Courses use this resource to • Club development resources development of develop Hurling. coaches includes the • Develop twinning opportunities • 3 Twinning initiatives developed • Hurling contacts throughout Ulster identification and between Ulster Counties and Ireland nurturing of the most and strong Hurling Counties • Core Hurling Skills Certificate talented coaches throughout Ireland, developed • Competition Fixtures, Rules and Results • Develop a basic hurling award • 3 x Theory courses per year • Club Contact details aimed at introducing adults to coaching. • 6 x Practical Courses per year • Capital build information • Continue to deliver and develop • 2 x Comhairle Uladh Staff • Funding initiatives a Hurling specific Coach Development Courses • Move towards communication Development Programme. through correspondence. • 3 x Development Days in each County • Strategic deployment of the National Hurling Co-ordinator to • Coaching Academy introduced by deliver a minimum of: end 2009 Refereeing • The introduction of an Ulster • Identify and train six former County Rationale Strategy Outcomes Sought Hurling Coaching Academy to hurlers to coach Development further develop coaches that Squads. Currently there are • Recruitment of new referees • A minimum of 2 new referees per work with elite players. not enough referees County to be developed. in Ulster to cover all • ‘Fast track’ recruitment of former the games that are • Hurling Referees Development • Two referee development courses County hurlers to be supported currently organised. It Programme be developed to be organised each year as part and trained to work with County is therefore important similar to Ulster Councils Coach of Comhairle Uladh’s development Development Squads. that a pool of high Development Programme. programme. quality referees is developed from every • A minimum of one Referee Foundation County within the Course per year to be organised in Province to ensure each County. that all fixtures are complimented by a competent team of referees.
74 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 75 Comhairle Uladh CLG Comhairle Uladh CLG Hurling Strategy 2009-2014 Hurling Strategy 2009-2014
Coaching and Games Development Schools and Colleges
Rationale Strategy Outcomes Sought Rationale Strategy Outcomes Sought
To compliment the Provision of competitive Provincial • Integrate the Ulster Senior Club The development of Primary School Hurling • Deliver 9 x training courses to development of the club competitions at Senior, Minor, Hurling League fixtures into County Hurling in our schools primary school teachers game at County and and Under 16 fixture plans. is the responsibility of • Organise 18 x Go Games blitz Provincial level it is levels through: Cumann na mBunscoil, competitions each year important to provide • A minimum of 60 teams involved Coláistí Uladh and • Organise 3 x regional blitz all clubs with a viable • Ulster Club Senior Hurling League each year. Coiste na nGairm Scóil competitions each year competitive structure Uladh, while Comhairle • Organise 18 x Indoor Hurling that ensures that • Ulster Club Minor Hurling League • Increase participation in Ulster Club Ardoideachais Uladh Competitions each year all clubs get more Minor League to involve a minimum of: (CAU) administers games at a level • Ulster Club Under 16 Hurling • 24 teams in 2009 the universities and Post Primary School Hurling • Deliver 9 x training courses to post commensurate with Competition • 30 teams in 2010 third level colleges. primary school teachers their ability. Great • 36 teams in 2011 On the performance • Organise 9 x Super 7/9/11 blitz strides have been Provision of competitive and • 40 teams in 2012 front Ulster Colleges competitions each year taken in recent years inclusive Provincial County • 50 teams in 2015 have made significant • Organise 6 x County indoor blitz to address this area of Competitions at the following levels: progress in the past competitions per year development through • New competition introduced by 2009. number of years with • Organise 3 x regional indoor blitz the Ulster Senior Club • Senior Championship St Patrick’s College competitions per year League. However it • All Ulster Counties to compete in (Maghera) winning • Provide support to Coláistí Uladh and is becoming apparent each year the O’Keefe Cup (All Coiste na nGairm Scóil Uladh through that this needs to be • Minor Championship Ireland Colleges ‘B’ the provision of grant aid based on replicated at other • 6 x Counties to compete in 2009 Championship) in 2005 the developmental needs of levels to ensure that • 9 x Counties to compete in 2010 and Cross and Passion each organisation. our clubs are getting • Under 21 Championship College (Ballycastle) • 4 x Counties to compete in 2009 regular meaningful narrowly losing in the Universities and Third Level • 4 x coaching seminars and courses • 6 x Counties to compete in 2010 games. It is also vital 2007 final. Colleges aimed at students and coaches that all Ulster Counties • Under 21 ‘B’ Championships • 5 x Counties to compete in 2009 Provide support to CAU through the working with college teams. set their sights high • 3 x Counties to compete in 2010 There has also been delivery of: • Provide support to CAU through when planning for considerable progress the provision of grant aid based Hurling Development. • Under 17, 16, 15 & 14 Blitz • 1 x Under 17 Competitions in the development on the developmental needs of the Currently some Championships • 1 x Under 16 Competition of Hurling with organisation. Counties are content • 2 x Under 15 Competitions an increase in the • Develop links with to opt out of Ulster • 1 x Under 14 Competition number of schools British Universities. Hurling Championships participating in and this is a trend that • Minor County League • 4 x Counties to compete in Division 1 Colleges’ competitions. must be reversed. in 2009 Work at Vocational • 5 x teams to compete in Division 2 Schools level however • Under 16 and Under 17 in 2009 has been in decline for Development Squads a number of years with • 8 x sessions per year. a number of schools opting to play under • 4 x Competitive opportunities the Ulster Colleges • Introduce more Hurling clubs structures. • 4 New Hurling Teams developed each year of this strategic plan.
76 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 77 Title to go here Title to go here Sub Title to go here SubAcknowledgements Title to go here “Teaghlaigh agus Pobail: An Fabraic de CLG”
Comhairle Uladh would like to express its gratitude to the following groups and individuals for their support in the development of the Ulster Strategy 2009-2015, “Teaghlaigh agus Pobail: An Fabraic de CLG”:
The 432 volunteer club officials from across the nine Ulster Counties who attended the strategy forum and workshops at the Ulster GAA Community Development Conference held in Belfast on Saturday 15th November 2008
The Management Committee of Ulster Ulster Camogie Council Council GAA • Catherine O’Hara (Chairperson) • Tom Daly (President) • Aogan Farrell (Vice President) Ulster Ladies Gaelic Football Council • Danny Murphy (Provincial Director and Secretary) • Martin McAviney (Treasurer) • Gerry Doherty (President) • Michael Hasson (Public Relations Officer) • Mary Keegan (Secretary) • Liam Nelis (Chairman Referees Committee) • Sheena Tally (Ulster Regional Development Officer) • Oliver Galligan (Chairman Coaching and Games Committee) • Naul McCole (Chairman Irish and Culture Committee) Cumann na mBunscol
• Paul Duggan (Secretary) Ulster Developments Committee • Pat McGivern (Central Council Delegate)
• Gerry McClory (Antrim) The Council would like to thank the following individuals • John Moley (Armagh) who made contributions to the development of the strategy: • Tom Reilly (Cavan) • Harry Gribbin (Derry) • Gerard Bradley • Brian McEniff • Edward Molloy (Donegal) • Donal McAnallen • Frankie Quinn • Gerry Mullan (Down) • Eamon McMahon • Jim Murray • Brian Armitage (Fermanagh) • Frankie Quinn • Seamus McCloy • Declan Flanagan (Monaghan) • Paddy óg Nugent • Niall Laird • Liam Nelis (Tyrone) • Paddy Heaney • Dan McCartan • Malachy McGeeney (Cumman na Bunscol Uladh) • Kieran Leddy • Art McRory (Ulster Vocational Schools) • Tom Cullen (Ulster Colleges Council) The Ulster Council would also like to thank the members • Brendan McGeary (CAU) of Ulster GAA staff who contributed to the overall • Robert Maguire (Ulster Handball Council) development of the plan: • Peader Totten (Ulster Rounders Council) • Dr. Eugene Young • Michelle McAleer • Stephen McGeehan • Jimmy Darragh Central Council • Aileen Tohill • Terence McWilliams • Diarmaid Marsden • Geraldine McKavanagh • Christy Cooney (President-Elect) • Damian Kelly • Bernie McGlinchey • Pauric Duffy (Director General) • Stephen Donnelly • Maura Kelly • Sharon Haughey • Paul Sanders Past Presidents • Ryan Mellon • Paul Rouse • Gary Mallon • Peter Quinn (Ulster/National) Finally the Ulster Council would like express its gratitude • Paddy McFlynn (Ulster/National) to both Mark Conway and Ryan Feeney for their hard work • Sean McCague (National) and dedication in managing and facilitating the overall • Michael Greenan (Ulster) development process of the Ulster GAA Strategic Vision
and Action Plan 2009-2015 “Teaghlaigh agus Pobail: An Fabraic de CLG”
78 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family Ulster GAA Strategic Vision and Action Plan 2009-2015 79 Some imagery supplied by Sportsfile Title to go here Sub Title to go here
Ulster Council GAA
Cennaras Uladh 8-10 Market Street Armagh BT61 7BX
T (0044) 28 3752 1900 F (0044) 28 3752 8092 E [email protected] W www.ulster.gaa.ie
80 Comhairle Uladh CLG Lifelong promotion of Gaelic Games, Culture, Community and Family