Cork GAA clubs reminded to sign up for cleanup day

GAA clubs are reminded that this Wednesday is the deadline for registering for the Cork GAA Cleanup Day, which takes place from 10am-2pm on Saturday, September 21.

Coinciding with World Cleanup Day, which is scheduled for the day before, the event is intended to demonstrate the GAA’s commitment to environmental stewardship and community service.

Players, coaches, officials and supporters come together to clean up various locations across Cork and the initiative is supported by both Cork City Council and Cork County Council. With a goal of collecting and properly disposing of large volumes of waste, the aim is to foster a cleaner, healthier environment. It is supported as part of the Waste Enforcement Regional Lead Authorities (WERLAs) as part of their 2024 Anti-Dumping Initiative.

The event will be led by Cork County Board’s sustainability group, which is headed by Castlehaven club member Enda Buckley, who is also head of sustainability at the dairy producer Carbery in Ballineen. Another member of the sustainability group, Patrick Calnan, outlines the goals of the cleanup day.

“The idea is that sustainability is bred into the GAA,” he says. from one generation to the other, but it also has to cut across our environment as well.

“We wanted to make a positive contribution, outside of just sport, as the GAA is more than just a sporting organisation, it’s a community organisation.” To that end, the initiative is intended to be inclusive.

“We’re trying to reach in to people who mightn’t be involved on the sporting side of it but who do have involvement in their communities,” Calnan says.

“The sustainability group is working with those types of people as well, to say, ‘There’s a place for you in the GAA as well.’ “That’s the idea behind it and it’s tied in as well with World Cleanup Day, which is on the day before.

“We’re doing a few hours in every GAA community and it’s in partnership with Cork City Council and Cork County Council as well.” Among the main planks of the cleanup day are the obvious environmental impact in reducing litter and enhancing communities’ natural beauty, but also community engagement and youth involvement, teaching the next generation the importance of environmental responsibility and community service.

The event is part of Cork GAA’s Sustainability Vision, which is that sustainability is the bedrock of the GAA.

County board chairperson Pat Horgan expressed enthusiasm and strong support for the event. “We are incredibly proud of our members for organising this vital initiative,” he said.

“As sportspeople, we understand the importance of maintaining clean and safe spaces for both our training and our community. This event is a testament to our commitment to not only excel in sports but also to be responsible citizens.” 

Those views were echoed by Cllr Joe Carroll, Mayor of the County of Cork.

“This initiative is a fantastic opportunity for everyone young and old, to come together and show pride in our beautiful county,” he said.

“Let’s roll up our sleeves, work as a team, and make our communities cleaner and greener.” Cllr Dan Boyle, Mayor of City, was equally enthusiastic.

“The GAA, in particular GAA clubs, are one of the most significant community-based organisations in the country,” he said.

“This initiative is very much to be welcomed and will have a ripple effect in many communities. It is sad that some people create litter, but it is heartening that more want to work together to see it removed.” Participants are encouraged to bring reusable gloves, bags, and other necessary equipment. Participating Cork GAA Clubs will provide additional supplies and refreshments to all volunteers.

For more information, please contact Enda Buckley (ebuckley@carbery.com) or Patrick Calnan (Patrick@reasire.com)