Gemma O'Connor: Disconnected Camogie Association needs GAA-LGFA merger

Cork great Gemma O'Connor feels that the Camogie Association is disconnected with its members and must merge with the GAA and LGFA if the sport is to continue to grow.

Talks about a proposed amalgamation of the three Gaelic Games governing bodies are underway, chaired by former President of Ireland Mary McAleese.

GAA director-general Tom Ryan recently expressed optimism that the three would eventually come under one umbrella but pleaded for patience during negotiations.

Ten-time All-Star O'Connor, who retired in 2021, says that the players are overwhelmingly in favour of the move.

"I think the Camogie Association 100% needs it," she said, speaking at the launch of the Electric Ireland Camogie All-Ireland Minor Championships.

"I don't know at the top level are they willing to admit that but the players definitely need it and they are the ones who are going to reap the benefits out of it.

"The GAA is a massive, great organisation and when you look at GAA clubs around the country, [what they have] for adults and young boys, I think the girls need that and the Camogie Association needs it.

"We need sponsors, TV, all the pitches. It’s only going to be a positive thing for that merger to happen.

"If the associations are opposing on it, they are probably the people that are sitting up in Croke Park in offices. On the ground, players and ex-players probably want to see the merge happen.

"We want to be part of the GAA. Officially we're not but we all see ourselves as part of the GAA. I’m part of the Camogie Association, my neighbour down the road is part of the Ladies Gaelic Football Association. I’ve a brother and friends that are part of the GAA.

"It’s ridiculous really. We’re all playing the same national sports, just a different