In recognition of their exceptional contributions to the health and wellbeing of their members and their local communities, 23 clubs in Meath – the largest in Leinster – have been awarded official accreditation as Irish Life GAA Healthy Clubs. The award ceremony for all Leinster clubs took place in the Killeshin Hotel, Portlaoise on Thursday October 19.
This milestone follows almost two-years work by the clubs’ teams of volunteers who give up their free time to make the GAA and Ireland a healthier place for everyone to enjoy.
The Irish life GAA Healthy Clubs programme marks its tenth anniversary in 2023. It has grown from a small pilot featuring 16 clubs in 2013 to having engaged 450 clubs to date.
This level of growth and impact could not have been achieved without the long-term support of our title sponsors, Irish Life, with further support from the Tomar Trust, the HSE, the National Office for Suicide Prevention, and Healthy Ireland.
The most common areas of activities initiated by clubs were:
- Physical activity, such as walking initiatives, exercise classes, and social Gaelic Games;
- Community development, including supporting older members of the community, youth leadership and supporting local charities etc;
- Mental health awareness and education;
- Diversity and inclusion, including games opportunities for all;
- Substance use and gambling awareness, including smoke- and vape-free clubs; and
- Healthy eating
The following 23 clubs received awards
