GAA gone to the dogs

GAA legend Micheál O'Muircheartaigh launched a new partnership between the GAA Social Initiative and the Irish Greyhound Board (IGB) to help clubs tackle the isolation and loneliness that can affect some older members of the communities they serve. "Approximately 200 clubs have signed up to participate in the GAA Social Initiative through which they offer activities and outings designed specifically to cater for older members of their communities," explained GAA president Liam O'Neill. "Now, thanks to the IGB, a free night out at their local dog track can be added to that list," he added. As they grow older, men living alone tend to become more detached from their communities, families and friends than their female counterparts who are better at retaining important social connections. While GAA Social Initiative clubs cater for men and women, members are asked to make a special effort to reach out to that hard to reach cohort of isolated older men in urban and rural communities. Micheál Ó Muircheartaigh added: "The GAA and Bord na gCon seem an ideal partnership, when the objective is to further progress the work of the GAA Social Initiative in tackling isolation. The wonderful facilities available in many of the greyhound stadia throughout the country are very suitable for hosting social events that could easily include the older members within communities. Cooperation between the partners is the key to a wonderful new chapter in community life. Ní neart go cur le chéile." GAA Social Initiative Club groups will be hosted at the following venues - Shelbourne Park, Harolds Cross, Waterford, Cork, Tralee, Limerick, Galway, Mullingar - on selected nights of the week. The offer includes: Complimentary Admission & Race Programme Reserved Seating Area Race Named after club with a nominated member of the group to present trophy to winning connections Welcome by GM with some "live tips from the kennel" Further details from your local GAA club or Co Board