GPA asks Government to increase annual player support from €1,800 to €2,500, as new survey findings highlight the financial and personal demands facing inter-county players
Inter-county players and representatives from the GPA met with Minister for Sport Patrick O’Donovan to seek an additional €700 per player per year in Government support as players face increasing cost-of-living pressures.
The meeting formed part of the GPA’s pre-Budget engagement with Government, to seek an additional €2.8 million investment, bringing support up from €1,800 to €2,500 per player.
The GPA also presented the Minister with the latest findings from its forthcoming 2026 Annual Member Survey, which complement previous Indecon economic research, and provide a detailed picture of the demands now facing inter-county players.
The 2026 Survey compiled 3,555 responses across the four codes and highlights the increasingly year-round nature of the inter-county commitment. 49% of players have two weeks or less between the end of their club and the start of inter-county.
The findings also highlight the financial pressures experienced by female players. Seven in ten female players reported an issue with the current timing of expenses and 94% support moving to monthly reimbursement in 2027. There is also a strong player mandate for equality of minimum standards with 78% of players support the introduction of one Squad Charter for all inter-county players (21% Don’t Know, 1% Oppose)
The survey demonstrates that the contribution players can make extends well beyond competition with 67% of players interested in supporting social-impact initiatives, such as sport, health, and education, underlining the wider contribution of inter-county players.
GPA CEO Tom Parsons said:
“Government funding is an important recognition of the extraordinary commitment made by inter-county players to our National games. The findings presented to the Minister today gives a clear picture of the reality behind that commitment.
At a time when the cost of living pressures are bearing down on players, Government has an opportunity to deliver something immediate and tangible for the current generation. We are asking for an additional €700 a year per player, bringing the support to €2,500. In
the overall scheme of things it is a modest increase, but for players meeting the costs of petrol, food, travel and the everyday demands of representing their counties, it would be meaningful. It would also be an important statement of parity of esteem and recognition of the commitment required.
“We see the pride and belief that All-Ireland success can generate across an entire county and the inspiration it provides to the next generation. That social and community value is an important part of what inter-county players contribute to Irish life.
“We appreciate the Minister taking the time to meet directly with players and hear about their experiences. We look forward to continuing our engagement with Government ahead of the Budget.”
The full 2026 GPA Annual Membership Survey, will be published in October, with further findings covering player welfare, injuries, competition structures, player rights, data and NILP, the Player Charter and inter-county team environments.
