Tommy Broughan (Dublin North East, Labour)
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Question 37: To ask the Minister for Arts, Sport and Tourism the position regarding the Gaelic players grant scheme; if the issue has be resolved to the satisfaction of all concerned; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [32337/09]

Martin Cullen (Waterford, Fianna Fail)
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As I have previously indicated to the House, the drastically changed economic circumstances means that the taxpayer cannot continue to fund the entire cost of schemes such as the grants for Gaelic players.

I met representatives of the GPA on 29 June last with a view to agreeing a sustainable new scheme that would recognise the outstanding contribution of Gaelic players to our indigenous sports.

We had a robust exchange of views in an honest and open atmosphere. I explained to the GPA the difficulties facing my Department in the current economic climate. They fully understood and accepted those difficulties. I explained my view that the scheme as originally constituted was no longer viable. However, I outlined that I was anxious to address the main concern of the players, which is recognition of the contribution that they make to the culture and traditions of this country. In that context I wanted to put in place a scheme that is sustainable and provides that recognition.

The proposal that I put to the GPA would have provided for funding of over €1 million, which would benefit 600 Gaelic players. The proposal mirrors the high performance funding in 16 other sports whereby athletes must meet strict performance criteria in order to qualify for funding. The Irish Sports Council has provided just over €2m in 2009 for our top athletes in 16 other sports under its Carding Scheme.

This new funding proposal was rejected by the GPA at the meeting.