Bulletin following Management Committee Meeting on 2 November 2021.
Halo Tiles Wexford GAA Centre of Excellence
Wexford GAA note with disappointment the decision of An Bord Pleanála to refuse permission for the proposed development in Halo Tiles Wexford GAA Centre of Excellence. Planning permission for the addition of new pitches, a spectator area and the development of an entrance from the N11 at the Halo Tiles Wexford GAA Centre of Excellence, which was originally granted by Wexford County Council, was overturned by An Bord Pleanála.
Wexford GAA have at all times liaised with the planning department of Wexford County Council to ensure that we followed regulations and have employed the services of roads and planning expertise in the submission of our application. We also note that the An Bord Pleanála inspector recommended that planning be granted.
We will now liaise with Wexford County Council to review the decision of An Bord Pleanála before considering our next steps. Wexford GAA remains committed to developing a centre of excellence and inclusion that meets the needs of Gaelic games within our county. In 2021, the Halo Tiles COE has been a hub of activity for our club blitzes and games as well as a base for all our county teams and development squads.
Coaching Structures
We wish Shane O’Hanlon and Adam Ryan the best of luck in their new roles and thank them for the commitment and expertise that they brought to the development and promotion of Hurling and Gaelic Football across the county, in schools and in clubs.
We currently have vacancies for three GPOs. The recruitment process is ongoing to fill these vacancies.
High-Performance Plan for Hurling
Micheál Martin, Chairperson Wexford GAA, outlined that he has held discussions with a number of individuals who would be prepared to make a significant financial contribution to support a High-Performance Plan for Hurling. The vision of this plan is to develop MODEL players, coaches and teams to consistently achieve success at the highest level and to have the Wexford Senior Hurling Team compete as a top-four team and be serious contenders every year for All-Ireland hurling titles. The plan will involve a number of appointments to ensure delivery of a high-performance programme.
Micheál outlined that while this financial support was specific to hurling, he would be hopeful that those interested in the further development of football would be prepared to put their shoulder to the wheel in terms of creating a similar sustainable and viable structure for football.
Fixtures
Correspondence in respect of fixtures was received and considered from St. James’ and Ballyhogue. The CCC of Wexford GAA is responsible for all arrangements for and control of any matters arising from games under the jurisdiction of the Wexford GAA. As such, Coiste Bainistí do not have the powers to arrange a fixture, cancel a fixture or over-turn a decision of the CCC in respect of fixtures. Micheál Martin advised that he will meet with the CCC in advance of their next meeting.
Referees
There are currently 24 new referee recruits who are working through the online portion of the Referee Foundation Course. It is hoped to hold an in-person session facilitated by Croke Park to complete the course in the coming weeks.
However, there are still nine clubs who do not have an active referee nor a recruit currently undergoing training. It was agreed to communicate directly with these clubs again to request that they trawl their membership for prospective candidates prior to any sanctions for such clubs being considered.
County Bye Laws
A sub-committee was formed to review the County Bye Laws following changes as a result of Special Congress. The sub-committee will review the impact of these changes and recommendations to the Management Committee for proposals for consideration at County Convention.
Audit & Risk Committee
The Audit & Risk Committee provided an update on their work to date. An initial report of their findings has been received and an action plan to address their recommendations has been put in place. Micheál Martin thanked the committee for their work to date and emphasised that Wexford GAA aims to uphold the highest standards of good governance.
Upcoming Dates
8 November 2021 Deadline for receipt of nominations and motions for Convention
16 November 2021 November County Board Meeting
30 November 2021 Coiste na nÓg Annual Meeting
6 December 2021 County Convention
