'A strong step forward for GAA players' says Tom Parsons on budget plans

Former Mayo GAA footballer Tom Parsons has commented on the budget published by the government yesterday.

Parsons, the CEO of the Gaelic Players Association (GPA) called the measures 'a strong step forward for players, for equality, and for recognition of the enormous contribution they make to Irish life and the economy."

The budget includes a 28% increase in state funding for inter-county players, bringing total player funding to €7.2 million and increasing the average grant to €1,800 per player.

Parsons points out "this progress comes from unity, credibility, and player advocacy - backed by data, collaboration, and respectful engagement across Government."

He thanked Minister Patrick O'Donovan (Fine Gael) TD Minister TD Jack Chambers (Fianna Fáil) in particular for significant engagements, and all other Ministers, TDs, and MEPS who supported the GPA’s case.

But Parsons also acknowledged that the work continues.

The GPA wrote in a press release: "The GPA will continue to push until inter-county players are fully recognised and supported on par with other elite and high-performance athletes in Ireland, whether that is achieved through the total funding outlined in our campaign or through a combination of direct investment and/or a fair tax-relief scheme for players."

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