The Christy O'Connor column: GAA has a duty to provide games for its youngsters

Feelings of helplessness, loneliness and fear of being socially excluded are common in any epidemic. But the recent research has shown that prolonged stress, boredom and social isolation, as well as a lack of outdoor play, can lead to a higher number of mental health conditions in children, such as anxiety and even depression. In those recent surveys, the data also showed how being unable to play outside with friends, or fears of falling behind in their education, added to children’s feelings of deprivation and anxiety.

When speaking about this issue, Shane Supple was acutely aware of the logistical problems that lay ahead for fixture-makers in Cork. For a start, there will be a huge demand for pitches and referees with so many adult games having to take place in such a short timespan. How much space will then be left for underage activity?
