GAA for all as Waterford set to host two Inclusion Cúl Camps this summer

The HSE and the GAA have rolled out a pilot project to make the GAA Inclusive Cúl Camps accessible to a larger number of children with intellectual, physical and sensory disabilities and autism - including two camps in Waterford this summer. 

The project will initially be rolled out in the Munster Region this summer and will include Inclusive Cúl Camps in Waterford, Cork, Clare, Kerry, Limerick and Tipperary, but there are plans to extend it to all regions across Ireland in 2026.

The GAA Cúl Camps provide primary school boys and girls between the ages of 6 and 13 with an action-packed and fun-filled week of activity during the summer holidays, which revolves around maximising enjoyment and sustaining participant involvement in Gaelic Games. Activities are player-centred with a games-based approach and a strong emphasis on personal development and well-being.

Minister for Children, Disability, Equality, Norma Foley TD said: “I’m really pleased to see this initiative get off the ground, with support from the Department of Children, Disability and Equality and in partnership with the GAA and the HSE. Children with disabilities should be afforded the opportunity to benefit from sports participation in their own local communities.

“GAA Inclusion Cúl Camps are a great example of community spirit and opportunity for all, enhancing the lives of all children involved.”

Approximately 10.8% of the child population in Ireland has a disability. This accounts for over 130,000 children. The needs of children with a disability extend well beyond health service provision, and the HSE participates fully with Community and Voluntary Groups to maximise access to services and supports within the community.

Jarlath Burns, President of the GAA said: “The GAA is delighted to be working with the HSE on this project. In line with our inclusive values, we endeavour, as always, to make Kelloggs GAA Cúl Camps accessible to everyone. With this partnership we hope to accommodate all children, of all needs, at their local camp.”

There will be 39 Inclusive Cúl Camps operating this year throughout the country providing opportunities for 1,124 participants with additional needs to experience a mainstream GAA Cúl Camp.

Waterford

Waterford Inclusion

Walsh Park 18 - 20 August

Fraher Field 20 - 22 August

Cork

Cork GAA Inclusion

Pairc Ui Caoimh21 - 23 July

Clare

Cusack Park Inclusion

Cusack Park 5 - 7 August

Kerry

Kerry Inclusion

The Green CBS 5 - 7 August

Miltown GAA 12 - 14 August

Limerick

Limerick Inclusion

Old Christians, 3 days

Ballingarry, 3 days

Tipperary

Tipperary All Inclusive

Dr Morris Park 13 - 15 August

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