A groundbreaking new report reveals that inter-county players are generating a total economic impact of €591 million annually but at a significant personal expense. According to an independent report conducted by Indecon International Economic and Strategic Consultants (Indecon) and commissioned by the Gaelic Players Association (GPA), individual players incur an average net expense loss of €4,602 annually to participate at the inter-county level.
The report, Assessment of Economic and Social Impacts of Inter-County Gaelic Football, Camogie and Hurling Players in Ireland, has been published this morning. Based on figures from the 2023 season, it underscores the critical role inter-county players play not just in Gaelic games but in the broader Irish economy. It also reveals the significant growth in economic impact since 2018. Among the key findings, senior inter-county games generated:
- €359 million in direct spending (+51%)
- 4,212 jobs that were directly supported (+53%)
- €353 million in gross value added (+53%)
- €62 million in exchequer impact (+49%)
The research, conducted by Indecon over a six-month period in 2024 not only highlights the positive economic contribution of inter-county players but also exposes the financial burden they bear.
This financial burden has been amplified by the recent cost of living crisis, where inter-county players incur significant additional expenses with regards to their fuel and nutrition. Adjusted for inflation, players are €1,499 worse off than in 2018, largely due to out-of-pocket expenses for training and competing at the elite level. In a survey of current inter-county players, many spoke of the impact that their playing commitments have on educational and career progression. Due to this, current GPA members are projected to suffer a cumulative lifetime earnings reduction of €31 million.
Players are also losing out on €3,500 annually in potential overtime earnings
Government Engagement
The GPA is actively engaging with the government to enhance recognition of players’ economic and social contribution, which in turn will help address the financial shortfall experienced by inter-county players.
GPA Board of Directors Chairman Brian MacCraith said; “This important report highlights the significant contribution that inter-county players make to Irish society and the economy — both as role models inspiring future generations and as elite athletes generating substantial revenue for the State. We are urging the Government to ensure that its support reflects this impact.
“While we welcome the increase in grant funding from €3 million to €5.6 million to address gender disparities, male player grants have remained stagnant at €1,470 per player since 2018, representing a 24% reduction since they were introduced in 2008, and now represent just a 1% return on Total Economic Impact.
“It is clear the Government must do more to recognise and support the vital role played by Gaelic players across all codes — Football, Hurling and Camogie. We look forward to engaging with ministers to push for greater State recognition of their contribution.”
GAA Engagement
The GPA will also be seeking to address the findings of the report as part of ongoing negotiations with the GAA around a new protocol agreement.
While players are significantly more out of pocket between 2018 and 2023, GAA (Central Council) Revenue grew by 44% to €91.7 million. This included growth of commercial income and gate receipts associated with the inter-county game.
In the same period:
- Inflation on mileage (+32%) and nutrition (+16%) has increased the burden on players
- The GAA’s reimbursement rate for mileage has remained flat meaning a reduction in real terms
- Nutrition rate remained unchanged at €20/week
- As a result, players are now €1,499 more out of pocket, taking total annual expenses to €4,622 that are not reimbursed
- Players are also experiencing a €5,200 negative impact annually on their income
- GAA contribution to the GPA directly increased by only 3%, from €3.8m to €3.9m to support player development and welfare programmes
GPA CEO Tom Parsons commented; “We are currently negotiating a new protocol agreement with the GAA, and these findings must be seriously considered by those in Croke Park. There is an urgent need to enhance the recognition of what inter-county players are contributing to ensure that participation at this level remains sustainable.
“I have serious concerns that an inter-county career for students and professionals trying to secure a mortgage or start a family is becoming unviable.
“We are well aware of the significant investment that Croke Park makes in all sections of our games, but inter-county players, whose games generate up to 80% of the money available to spend, cannot be left footing the bill.”
The full Indecon Report can be read HERE.
Hugh Hennessy, Indecon, who led the assessment, said; “The independent report demonstrates the significant economic benefits that Gaelic games bring to the island of Ireland. Players who compete at inter-county level contribute significantly to this economic value, but often at great personal cost. Players across all codes – Football, Hurling and Camogie – make significant commitments and sacrifices, in respect of their education, their current and future career and wider financial decisions.”
ENDS
Notes:
Direct Spending – The direct economic output generated by match attendees and the GAA/ Provincial Councils in Ireland, through their purchases of goods and services (including labour) from the Irish economy in which they operate.
Indirect Spending – Indirect spending/ impacts include the knock-on business activity that is supported through direct economic activity, e.g., the positive economic impacts of upstream suppliers.
Induced Spending – Induced spending/ impacts are concerned with the knock-on impact of household consumption due to direct economic activity.
Total Economic Impact – The sum of direct, indirect and induced spending.
Gross Value Added – GVA effectively represents the overall contribution of the industry to Irish economy GDP.
Exchequer Impact – Tax revenue generated because of the above expenditure
